2026.05.05 Woodfin Town Council Budget Work Session

The Woodfin Town Council held a special work session on May 5, 2026, to review the proposed expansion budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2027. This meeting served as a continuation of previous discussions, aiming to finalize recommendations before the formal budget adoption process. The session focused on outlining potential spending beyond the town's standard operating costs, with Town Manager Sherry Powers presenting a breakdown of current and projected budgets. The council also reviewed financial projections, noting that FEMA reimbursements for previous debris removal have largely resolved past financial shortfalls, placing the town in a strong financial position.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on personnel costs, including a proposed 2.8% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) for all employees and various salary adjustments to align with market benchmarks. Police Chief Jackie presented the department’s goals and budget requests, which included a regional data sharing project, staffing improvements through a career development program, and plans to modernize uniforms and equipment. Chief Jackie also proposed reinstating a canine unit for drug detection and community engagement, as well as acquiring a drone for search and rescue and crime scene investigation. Council members expressed a desire to ensure employee compensation remains competitive while carefully considering the financial implications of these changes.

The council reviewed specific line items for the proposed $613,818 expansion budget, which includes $245,454 in one-time expenses and $368,364 in recurring costs. Specific requests detailed in the documents included increased cyber security costs, new signage, park cameras, leased patrol vehicles, and public works projects such as guardrails and landslide repair engineering. Additionally, the council discussed fee schedule changes effective January 1, 2027, including increases for off-duty police rates and subdivision reviews, alongside decreases for certain street permits. The town is also monitoring state legislation that could affect property tax processes, with assessed property values projected to more than double by 2027.

Regarding decisions and actions, the council approved the agenda as presented and unanimously approved a motion to adjourn. No formal votes were taken on the budget items themselves, as the purpose of this work session was to gather information and discuss options rather than to enact policy. The council decided to postpone a tentative meeting scheduled for June 2nd, as the budget discussions appeared complete at this time. There were no formal public comments or testimony recorded during this session.

The council agreed to monitor county tax numbers and potentially meet again if those figures change significantly. Town staff will continue to refine budget proposals based on the feedback received during the session, and the town will continue pursuing grants for items such as the proposed drone program. The town’s general fund balance is projected to be substantial by June 30, 2026, with a portion recommended for a Town Hall reserve. The agenda for the regular Town Council meeting on May 5, 2026, included consideration of the recommended budget, with a public hearing scheduled for June 16 and final adoption required no later than June 30.