Commissioners review budget showing narrow surplus; discuss COLA, victim‑witness funding, airport pledge and IT on‑call pay

County finance staff presented a preliminary 2026–27 budget showing approximately $593,000 positive before final payroll changes and pending items. The board discussed a proposed 0.50% cost‑of‑living adjustment (COLA) plus two merit steps (estimated about $470,000 excluding solid waste) and a $500,000 transfer from the health/wellness fund to cover a 7.2% insurance increase. Commissioners debated retaining two Victim‑Witness positions after state grant reductions; staff noted total cost for both positions is roughly $136,000 and that one position could be retained at a lower cost if needed while staff pursue grant opportunities.

Commissioners also discussed special funding requests — including a $95,000 proposed contribution toward airport needs — and whether those funds should remain in the budget as a contingency and be paid via voucher only if specific conditions are met. Several commissioners asked that the joint‑powers MOU with the airport be updated before making a final commitment. Regarding an IT on‑call compensation proposal, IT Director Andrew Farkeh presented options (a $45/day stipend for on‑call coverage, or weekend‑only coverage); commissioners asked for a legal review to ensure consistent treatment with other departments and directed staff to provide budget impacts and return with revised language.