April 15th 2026 Budget Work Session

The Carroll County, Georgia Board of Commissioners held a budget work session on April 15, 2026, to review and discuss the county's fiscal year 2027 budget. The session focused extensively on procurement-related budget items including projected increases in health insurance, salaries, and insurance costs. Significant changes were noted in the accounting for solid waste expenses, which are being moved into an enterprise fund, and the potential subsidization of the 911 fund from the general fund due to stagnant revenue growth. The board discussed contract costs such as the Motorola maintenance contract for 911 communications equipment and the need for a new IT website to meet ADA compliance requirements. The budget also included requests for additional staffing in various departments, including two deputies and one investigator for the sheriff's office, a full-time veterinarian for animal services, and additional personnel for solid waste and general administration. The commissioners deliberated on salary supplements for judges, with plans to develop clear policies for future adjustments. Capital improvement projects such as the new sheriff's office and jail upgrades were mentioned, with a scheduled work session to discuss construction contracts. The board also addressed funding for fire services, noting increased costs despite a decrease in call volume, and discussed the need for strategic planning to manage these expenses. The meeting concluded with plans for a follow-up session to finalize budget details and address outstanding issues.