The Brooksville City Council held a special meeting on June 30, 2025, to discuss various budgetary concerns and departmental operations. The meeting focused on potential outsourcing options for certain city positions, budget discrepancies, and the management of employee benefits.

The discussion began with an exploration of outsourcing options for two city positions. Council members considered three alternatives: collaboration with the Metropolitan Planning Organization, hiring external companies for review services, and utilizing internships. Concerns were raised about the effectiveness and costs associated with outsourcing, particularly regarding the potential for increased expenses and the need for experienced personnel to manage city operations.

Councilman Earhart highlighted the previous success of the building department, which had been outsourced in the past but was later brought back in-house due to its revenue-generating capabilities. This led to a broader discussion on the financial implications of outsourcing various departments, including community and building services. The council acknowledged that outsourcing could reduce costs related to employee benefits and downtime but expressed reservations about the quality of service and continuity.

The meeting also addressed budgetary issues, particularly discrepancies in the economic development budget for 2024. Questions arose regarding the allocation of funds for development incentives and the necessity of training expenses. Council members emphasized the importance of clarity in budgeting and the need for accurate projections to avoid unexpected costs.

A significant point of contention was the city's policy on paid time off (PTO). Council members expressed concern over the accumulation of PTO payouts, which amounted to $40,000 annually. There was a consensus that the city should implement a "use it or lose it" policy to prevent large payouts at the end of employees' careers, which could strain the budget.

The building division's financial performance was also scrutinized. While the department generates revenue, it was clarified that these funds cannot be transferred to the general fund due to state regulations. The council discussed the need for a part-time backup building official to ensure continuity during staff absences.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to reviewing operational efficiencies and budgetary practices. The discussions highlighted the need for strategic planning in staffing and financial management to ensure the city's long-term sustainability. Further evaluations and follow-up actions are expected in future meetings as the council continues to address these critical issues.