Budget Work Session:11/25/2024 (Minutes)

**Executive Summary**

**Meeting Overview**
The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners held a budget work session on September 10, 2010, led by Chairman Mary P. Tonneberger. The meeting commenced at 9:00 a.m., with full attendance from all commissioners to discuss financial matters and budget adjustments necessary to address a projected deficit of $219,000. The agenda was approved unanimously, and no public comments were submitted. Key financial documents were distributed by County Treasurer Chelly M. Roush to aid the commissioners in their deliberations, including previous tax bills and cash flow statements.

**Financial Discussions**
The primary topic of discussion revolved around managing the county’s budget deficit. Commissioner Shiflett suggested implementing a hiring freeze to save costs, while the potential turnover of a 911 dispatcher was noted as an opportunity for reallocation of personnel costs. The Board explored various strategies for financial stability, including cuts in departmental budgets, potential early retirement incentives, and the possible reassessment of current staffing levels. Moreover, commissioners agreed on the necessity of thorough evaluations of non-mandated services and the implications of granting pay raises, balancing the need to maintain employee morale with fiscal prudence.

**Future Actions**
The commissioners resolved to establish a target of $300,000 for budgetary cuts, with discussions on setting department-specific percentages to achieve the financial goals. The importance of prudent budgeting and allowing department heads the autonomy to strategize their cuts was emphasized. Chairman Tonneberger proposed discussions on pay raises in light of contractual obligations and commissioners’ salaries and benefits were put on the table for review as well. The meeting concluded with an agreement to reconvene on September 21 to continue the dialogue and pursue actionable items outlined during the session.

**Next Steps and Recommendations**
The financial team was tasked with reviewing departmental budgets to identify savings while exploring strategies for long-term sustainability in staffing and operational costs. Future meetings are anticipated to involve detailed discussions on personnel management as related to the budget, including exploring early retirement options and staff sharing strategies, to ensure the county remains fiscally responsible while addressing essential services.