Commissioners direct conservative guidance for 2027 budget process; timing and wage guidance debated

Commissioners and county administrative staff spent substantial time on budget process rules and calendars. Commissioner Stanton urged that department submissions be conservative and suggested departments omit wage increases at the initial submission stage so commissioners could consider wages later. "I'm merely suggesting that that be something we deal with later in the process," Stanton said.

County Administrator April and finance staff asked for explicit direction (for example, whether the board's "appetite" for ad valorem increases is 0% or up to a 3% projected mill levy). April explained staff could submit budgets digitally as they are received and assemble binders when completed; she noted capital improvements and IT replacement schedules need multi‑year planning. Commissioners discussed holding budget work sessions beginning in July and agreed staff would circulate proposed dates and state budget calendar timelines.

Department heads in the meeting were asked whether the direction given was sufficient; staff said it would be helpful to know whether to plan within a 3% projected mill‑levy cap or remain revenue‑neutral. Commissioners agreed to draft clear instructions to departments to be as conservative as possible and to meet individually with department heads where more discussion is required. The board did not adopt a formal binding resolution at this session but directed staff to prepare materials and timelines for the upcoming process.