Fiscal Court Meeting - May 12, 2026

The Hardin County Fiscal Court held a meeting on May 12, 2026, where key procurement and budgetary matters were discussed. The court reviewed and approved the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget, which included a $700,000 increase to cash reserves and no property tax increase. Budget discussions focused heavily on public safety funding, including a 5% grade increase for EMS full-time hourly service providers and EMS equipment upgrades. However, proposed funding for a deputy director position for Hardin County Fire Service and $50,000 for architectural plans for a new emergency services building were removed from the budget. The court also approved a resolution to apply for a $355,000 Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant, with a local match of $89,000, aimed at constructing above-ground community safe rooms. Additionally, recurring claims and maintenance contracts, including a $10,000 annual E911 equipment maintenance contract with Interaction Insight Corporation, were approved. Public comments highlighted concerns about emergency services funding and the need for long-term planning and investment in fire and EMS services. The meeting concluded with various committee meeting reminders and community announcements.