2025.05.13 Woodfin Town Council Budget Work Session Meeting

On May 13, 2025, the Woodfin Town Council held a work session to discuss matters regarding the FY2026 budget. The meeting focused on planning for the upcoming fiscal year, reviewing a draft proposal, and addressing specific fee and salary adjustments.

The council began by approving the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, both of which passed unanimously with a 3-0 vote. The consent agenda included the approval of Ordinance 2025-06, which amends the General Fund Budget to include GASB 87 required allocations for an Enterprise lease agreement covering five vehicles. Additionally, the council approved Enterprise lease agreements for two police vehicles budgeted in FY2025, which will replace vehicles rolling off the current lease plan.

A significant portion of the session was dedicated to the FY2026 expansion budget, presented by Sheri Powers, Finance Director. Powers outlined a proposed expansion budget of $669,623, which requires a $208,000 general fund balance allocation. She noted the complexities and uncertainties arising from Hurricane Helene and related FEMA funding, emphasizing the need for caution in budget decisions. The council discussed the ongoing impact of the hurricane, particularly regarding repairs to Silver Line Park and potential FEMA reimbursements, while acknowledging that final costs remain uncertain.

The council also addressed personnel costs and the pay plan. They approved a 3% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for all town employees, a rate slightly above the CPIW. Other personnel-related decisions included moving an evidence technician back to full-time police duties, adding a half-time position for front desk coverage, and approving a new pay plan for the public works department to align salaries with market rates. Council members expressed a desire to ensure the town remains competitive in attracting and retaining qualified employees, particularly within the police and public works departments.

Regarding the fee schedule, the council reviewed proposed changes to various town fees. A key discussion point was the reinstatement of a charge for bulky item pickup; the council decided to test a $20 per item fee, with a plan to revisit the decision later in the year. The council also approved slight increases for picnic shelter reservations and adjustments to subdivision review fees.

There were no formal public comments during this work session. The meeting concluded with the adjournment of the session.

Looking ahead, the council will formally present the proposed budget for consideration at their regularly scheduled meeting on June 17, 2025, followed by a public hearing and a final vote. The budget will be available for public review in the clerk's office starting the Tuesday following this meeting. Additionally, the town plans to implement the TextMyGov communication platform in July to allow for community alerts and reporting, and staff will continue to pursue FEMA reimbursements for Hurricane Helene-related expenses.