Council reaffirms intradivision budget transfer authority, approves $85,000 for storm-related tree removal

The Chesterfield City Council affirmed intradivision budget-transfer authority and approved an $85,000 supplemental allocation for storm-related tree removals from existing unspent funds within the street maintenance division.

Planning and Public Works Chairperson Hansen introduced the request, saying the practice allows division managers to move budgeted funds between categories (for example, from personnel to contractual services) without increasing total appropriation. Mr. Geisel told council that this capability is already provided in the city’s purchasing policy and that the request was an affirmation and transparency measure because the amounts involved are larger than usual due to persistent labor vacancies.

“Divisions are street maintenance, fleet maintenance, planning, public safety, perhaps. We have that ability. And at the end of every year, the budgets are trued up with the actual expenditures,” Mr. Geisel said, describing how transfers operate and why staff sought council affirmation before larger transfers.

Councilmember Tuggle (spelling as recorded in transcript) asked whether the policy applies across departments; Geisel confirmed it applies citywide. Councilmembers asked for an annual report showing the year-end recaps of such transfers so the council can see the dollar amounts moved between categories.

On the supplemental tree-removal request, the council was told the spring storms produced a large workload for the crews; the requested $85,000 will cover removal of remaining hazard trees and limbs. The council approved the supplemental transfer and the affirmation of intradivision authority by roll call votes.