Graham Stowe, the Executive of Giles County, recently addressed the community regarding the county’s budget, acknowledging the influx of thoughtful inquiries and some justified frustration following the release of a prior newsletter. He emphasized the challenge of balancing transparency with sensitivity, particularly when discussing tax-related matters. Stowe reaffirmed his commitment to candid communication about public policy, which has led him to present the county’s financial hurdles without embellishment. To clarify any misunderstandings, he provided an overview of the budget formation process.
The initial phase of budget preparation commenced in March and April, during which Department Heads (DHs) convened with the Finance Director. Many of these DHs are independently elected officials, including the Sheriff, Highway Superintendent, Director of Schools, Assessor, and various court officials. Since these officials operate independently of the County Executive, he typically does not participate in their preliminary budget discussions. During these initial meetings, the DHs evaluated their financial requirements and crafted budget proposals for the upcoming fiscal year.
Once the draft budgets are finalized, they undergo scrutiny by various committees composed of County Commissioners, who examine them in detail. Each committee is tasked with specific departmental oversight: the Emergency Services Committee reviews the Emergency Management and Ambulance budgets, the Law Enforcement Committee focuses on the Sheriff’s Department, the Highway Committee assesses the Highway Department, and the School Committee evaluates the School System. This structure ensures that all 21 commissioners can contribute to the discussion, either through their committee roles or by engaging in broader deliberations.
Following the committee reviews, the individual department budgets are compiled into a single package for the Budget Committee, which consists of seven commissioners, one representing each district. This committee undertakes an additional layer of examination, meeting over four extensive sessions this year. While most departmental budgets received approval with only minor adjustments, a significant issue arose: the proposed budget revealed a $5 million deficit. After further discussions, which included considerations of potential cuts and the introduction of a wheel tax, the Budget Committee ultimately decided to recommend a property tax increase to bridge the financial gap.
The final step in the budget process involves a vote by the full County Commission, which is set to take place on Wednesday, June 26, at 5:00 PM at the Giles County Courthouse. According to statutory regulations, the Commission can only vote to approve or reject the proposed budget as it stands, without the option for amendments at this stage. Should the budget receive majority approval, it will be enacted; however, if it fails, the Commission will need to return to the drawing board to expedite