The Coffee County Budget & Finance Committee convened on April 24, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting focused on personnel costs, capital outlay, and operational expenses, with a particular emphasis on adjustments to staff wages.

The discussion began with a review of capital outlay, where it was noted that previous allocations had been fully utilized. The committee then shifted its attention to personnel budgets, highlighting a proposed 5% increase for full-time employees and a target of $15 per hour for part-time staff. The rationale for this increase was tied to competitive wages in the local job market, particularly in the fast-food sector.

A representative detailed the challenges faced in maintaining operational costs, particularly with rising expenses for supplies and materials. The costs associated with printing, including ink and maintenance, were specifically mentioned as significant budgetary concerns. The representative indicated that the overall budget reflected a 6.18% increase compared to the previous year, largely driven by the proposed wage adjustments for part-time employees.

The committee also addressed questions regarding personnel turnover, with assurances that the current part-time staff, including college students, had shown a commitment to returning each summer. The representative noted that there was minimal turnover, attributing this stability to the work environment and the experience of long-term employees.

In addition to personnel discussions, the committee reviewed membership dues for professional organizations, including the American Library Association, which had seen an increase. The need for these memberships was justified as essential for maintaining professional standards and networking opportunities.

The meeting concluded with a call for further questions and clarifications on the proposed budget. The committee plans to continue refining the budget details in preparation for final approval in the coming weeks. Overall, the discussions underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing employee compensation while managing rising operational costs effectively.