Council members urged to improve budget tracking and reduce overspending

Owen County Commissioners are grappling with budgetary challenges as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year. During a recent meeting, officials discussed the need for improved tracking of expenditures and the implications of potential state funding cuts.

A key point of discussion was the availability of an additional $2,500 for an elected official, Sheila, who had not applied for the funds. The commissioners debated the process for allocating this money, emphasizing the importance of adhering to state regulations regarding budget adjustments. "If it's $2,500, it would have to go in front of the council," one commissioner noted, highlighting the procedural steps necessary for approval.

The conversation shifted to broader budget management strategies, with officials acknowledging the necessity for better oversight of spending. "We still don't know if the state is gonna cut us," one commissioner remarked, stressing the uncertainty surrounding state funding that could impact local budgets. They proposed that the council document every approved project to ensure transparency and accountability in spending.

As the county prepares for budget hearings, there is a clear call for more stringent tracking of financial allocations. "If you've turned in $10,000 in this line item because you created a project and you've spent 11, then I go to the commissioners and the council and say, you know, here we are. We've overspent again," a commissioner explained. This proactive approach aims to prevent future overspending and ensure that the county remains financially stable.

Looking ahead, the highway department is expected to face significant challenges in 2026 due to the ongoing budgetary constraints. The commissioners are tasked with navigating these financial hurdles while planning for essential projects and maintaining services for the community.