The Burke County Board of Commissioners voted to authorize the hiring of a deputy sheriff effective Oct. 1, contingent on the availability of funds when the new fiscal year begins. Commissioner Kelly moved to allow the hire on Oct. 1 if funds are available; Commissioner Lively seconded the motion.

County staff told commissioners the sheriff's current fiscal-year budget (FY2025) has been exhausted and that, unless the board adds money to the current year, the department cannot add another employee to payroll now. Merv, a county staff member, told the board a recent resignation effective Oct. 1 will free funds and that the position could be filled when the new fiscal year begins.

Discussion at the meeting emphasized the budget timing: commissioners declined to add money to FY2025 and instead authorized the hire to proceed once funds are available in the next fiscal year. Commissioners noted the matter will be revisited after Oct. 1 and at the next meeting schedule referenced during the session.

The motion was seconded and approved by voice during the meeting; the authorization is explicitly contingent on funds being available on or after Oct. 1.