2027 Budget Hearing Morning Session - September 9th, 2026

The Delaware County Government held a 2027 budget public hearing on September 9, 2026, focusing extensively on departmental budget requests, staffing, and operational costs. Key procurement-related discussions included budget allocations for contractual services such as IT support for tax statement preparation, legal services for the drainage board with increased hourly billing, and maintenance contracts for GIS data. The meeting also addressed capital improvement projects, notably the urgent need to repair and elevate a flood-damaged radio tower and dispatch center, with estimated costs between $500,000 and $750,000. Funding strategies for this project, including potential low-interest emergency loans through the Indiana Bond Bank and FEMA reimbursements, were discussed. Additionally, the council reviewed salary adjustments, part-time staffing challenges, and increases in postage, freight, and utility expenses across various departments. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to seek grants, adjust fee structures for building permits and inspections, and manage rising costs in public safety and emergency management. No formal votes on contract awards or RFPs were recorded, but several action items related to budget adjustments and funding strategies were noted.