Board of Aldermen Special Call Meeting, August 25, 2026

The City of Starkville Board of Aldermen held a special call meeting on August 25, 2026, focused primarily on reviewing and adjusting the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget. Key procurement and budget discussions included setting the millage rate at 34 mills to fund the budget, approving pay adjustments for general fund employees totaling approximately $4.4 million, and funding new fleet additions for the police department to reduce maintenance costs. The board also considered funding for parks maintenance, police department staffing increases including sergeant and code enforcement positions, and capital projects such as a comprehensive plan update estimated at $150,000 split over two budget years. Several budget line items were debated and adjusted, including reductions in travel expenses, election costs, and cemetery maintenance, while maintaining funding for critical public safety equipment and services. The board voted on motions to retain or cut various budget items, ultimately approving a budget with a millage rate of 34 mills and reallocating $52,550 in savings toward police fleet leasing. The finalized budget will be presented at a public hearing on September 4, 2026.