The Shelby County FY2026 Budget Subcommittee Meeting on June 11, 2025, focused on critical adjustments to the district attorney's office budget, addressing personnel funding and reallocations necessary for operational effectiveness.

A significant discussion centered around a proposed resolution to amend the district attorney general's fund operating budget. The amendment aimed to exclude a previously suggested reduction of $38,383 in personnel funding. Jessica Indigaro, the chief administrative officer for the district attorney's office, clarified that this reduction was identified as a mistake by Shelby County Finance. She emphasized the importance of maintaining budget flexibility, particularly as the office navigates staffing changes and potential salary increases.

Indigaro explained the concept of "scrape back," where unspent budgeted funds for positions are removed at the fiscal year's end. This process can lead to unintended consequences, such as hiring freezes on certain positions. She expressed a desire for a clearer understanding of the funding process to prevent issues experienced in the previous year.

The meeting also addressed a motion to reallocate $217,875 from the Shelby County government operating budget to both the district attorney general and public defender's offices. This reallocation is tied to a state requirement that mandates a 75% match for salary increases given to district attorneys, which must also be reflected in the public defender's budget.

The subcommittee moved to send the proposed amendments down without recommendation, indicating a need for further review and discussion. The meeting underscored the complexities of budget management within the county's legal offices and the ongoing efforts to ensure adequate funding and staffing levels.