Campobello delays audit as council readies FY2027 budget for August first reading

Mayor Aaron Ash said the town aims "to present the first reading of the budget at the August Council meeting and the second and final reading in September, prior to the start of the Town's fiscal year on October 1st." Mayor Ash opened discussion at the July work sessions and regular meeting that staff needs two outstanding items — the annual audit and updated property-tax revenue projections from Spartanburg County — before finalizing revenue forecasts.

Trey Eubanks told Council that the annual audit has been delayed for several consecutive years and recommended Council consider issuing a Request for Proposals for auditing services later this year. Council agreed staff should prepare a draft RFP, with October identified as a possible timeframe, and invite multiple firms, including the current auditor, to submit proposals. Staff also confirmed Trey Eubanks and outside consultants will continue to participate in budget development and review at the upcoming workshop.

Council discussed holding an additional budget workshop or an extended work session prior to the August meeting to review the proposed budget line-by-line and requested monthly financial reports that show budgeted amounts, expenditures and remaining balances to assist ongoing monitoring. The council reiterated the goal of responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars while maintaining services and community programs.