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Billings County approves 2.25% COLA for 2027 budget planning in 2–1 vote
Summary
Auditor Marcia Kessel asked for guidance on 2027 budgets; after debate and a failed 1.5% proposal, the board approved a 2.25% cost-of-living adjustment for salaries by a 2–1 vote (Rodne and Haag aye; Klym nay).
The commission directed department heads on 2027 budget planning and settled on a 2.25% cost-of-living adjustment for salaries after formal motions and a divided vote.
Auditor Marcia Kessel asked the board to provide budget direction, including expectations for quotes and details in budget requests. Commissioner Steven Klym advocated for cuts, noting he would reduce his commission salary; a motion to set COLA at 1.5% failed for lack of a second. Chairman Rodne then moved for a 2.25% COLA, which passed with Rodne and Haag voting aye and Klym voting nay.
The minutes note the CPI-U (April over April) at 3.8% as context for the COLA discussion. The board did not specify final departmental allocations at the meeting; department heads were told to prepare budgets with possible cuts and supporting documentation.
