Joint Budget Subcommittee 10-01-26

The Franklin Joint Budget Subcommittee met on October 1, 2026 (the transcript also refers to October 7). Members approved the August 13 minutes and voted to remove goal five, “assess priorities and affordability,” from the committee’s goals, retaining goals focused on public financial education, defining the budget problem, addressing the structural deficit over a three-year period, and improving capital and long-term financial planning. Members discussed developing plain-language financial education materials in multiple formats and channels; staff will refine the proposed video/FAQ concepts, and members discussed identifying peer communities for future budget comparisons.

The committee reviewed a preliminary FY2027 budget graphic and a five-year forecast showing an estimated cumulative gap of $6.6 million over three years and more than $18 million over five years. Discussion focused on forecast assumptions, use of free cash to address operating shortfalls, and the need to clarify recurring versus one-time capital expenses and communicate capital needs. Revenue ideas and possible state earmark processes were deferred for further discussion; members suggested examining underused commercial properties and learning more about how earmark requests are developed. No contract awards, vendor selections, bid approvals, or specific purchasing decisions were identified.