Special Call Meeting June 30, 2025

Special Call Meeting Recap: Addressing Hurricane Helena Recovery and Budget Adjustments

On June 30, 2025, the Special Call meeting was held to address critical budget adjustments stemming from ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helena and to clarify accounting practices. The meeting, attended by the Town Council and key town staff, focused primarily on ensuring financial stability while continuing essential park improvements impacted by the storm. No public comments were received during this meeting.

The primary focus of discussion revolved around two key budget amendments and an adjustment to the Future Park Development fund. Budget Amendment 5 formalizes the town's accounting practices for sales tax revenue, aligning with current recommendations from the School of Government. While this change doesn't alter how funds are managed, it ensures accurate financial reporting and avoids potential issues down the line. Approximately $45,000 in sales tax has already been accounted for under this new system. The more significant discussion centered on Budget Amendment 6, which addresses the financial needs of ongoing park improvements resulting from Hurricane Helena. The town is currently facing a shortfall of approximately $440,000 and anticipates needing to transfer an additional $605,000 to cover expenses related to Community Park Development, including repairs, bridge work, and trail development. Town staff emphasized that a significant portion (75-80%) of these costs are expected to be reimbursed through FEMA, and the proposed amendment allows for necessary fund transfers in the interim.

Beyond the budget amendments, the council also approved an adjustment to the Future Park Development fund balance. Donations received totaled $304, and a recent golf tournament raised $300 – significantly less than in previous years due to increased venue costs. The fund balance now stands at $30,868 and can be utilized for various park improvements and potential new facilities. Town staff briefly explained other designated funds, including those dedicated to Greenway development ("Fee in Lieu of"), library initiatives, and capital reserves for American Rescue Plan (ARPA) funds.

The council unanimously approved all three items: Budget Amendment 5, Budget Amendment 6, and the Park Development Fund Balance Adjustment. Following the meeting, town staff will continue pursuing FEMA reimbursements for Hurricane Helena-related expenses and closely monitor cash flow to potentially adjust fund transfers as those reimbursements are received. A review of the recent golf tournament’s financial performance will also be conducted to explore ways to improve fundraising efforts in future years. Work on the Greenway Bridge and Strand Bay Trail will continue, with an eye towards submitting completed projects for FEMA reimbursement.

This meeting was crucial to ensuring the town's financial health and ability to continue vital park improvements in the wake of Hurricane Helena. By formalizing accounting practices and approving necessary fund transfers, the council is enabling ongoing recovery efforts while preparing for anticipated FEMA reimbursements. Residents can expect to see continued progress on park improvements, supported by a commitment to responsible financial management.