Thomasville workshop reviews salary-study costs and 12 staffing requests; council discusses a tax option

Human Resources Director Alisa Quick told the council the January 2024 salary study raised payroll costs by about $765,000 and a later cost‑of‑living adjustment added roughly $309,000, bringing total personnel changes above $1 million. The workshop included discussion of workplace climate survey results and employee concerns about dependent coverage and workplace stress.

Department heads presented 12 new position requests with an estimated FY26 cost of about $715,500. Requests included a Public Information Officer (half‑year funding in FY26), a Network Administrator to address cybersecurity and CJIS compliance, permitting and planning support positions, parks and golf staffing, an administrative specialist for Public Works, three firefighter positions and a Fire Inspector III, a civilian traffic crash investigator for police, and additional utility laborers and an administrative specialist. Utility Director Morgan Huffman also requested a valve crew.

Finance Director Thomas Avant told council that proposed utility fee increases and reductions in contracted services could offset several of the requested positions. Council members expressed support for many of the requests but emphasized the need for careful prioritization. Council Member Neal Grimes proposed a one‑cent property tax increase as a funding option; members asked staff to explore revenue options and present prioritization tied to strategic objectives.

Next steps: staff will evaluate funding scenarios, prioritize positions and return recommendations to budget committees for formal consideration.