Hernando Board of Aldermen Meeting 09.08.2026

The Hernando Board of Aldermen held a meeting on September 8, 2026, primarily focused on discussions surrounding the approval and adoption of the fiscal year 2027 budget. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to deliberations on employee compensation, specifically cost of living adjustments for city employees including firefighters, police officers, and other personnel. Testimonies highlighted the importance of retaining experienced staff to maintain public safety and service quality, emphasizing the financial challenges faced by employees due to inflation and rising living costs. The board debated potential budget cuts and reallocations, including the possibility of canceling certain projects like the Kindall Light project to fund raises. Ultimately, a motion passed to adopt the original proposed budget with a 3% raise across the board and adjustments to certain employee compensation timelines, while also increasing the contingency fund by approximately $100,000. The meeting concluded with the budget approved and the board moving forward to implement it.