Black Mountain reevaluates solid waste fee increase, project funding

The Black Mountain Town Council met for a final budget workshop

The Black Mountain Town Council met for a final budget workshop as part of an agenda meeting. This workshop marks the conclusion of several budget meetings held throughout March and April, where department heads presented their requested budgets to the Town Council. Town Manager Josh Harrold also provided insights into expected revenues during these sessions.

Adjustment in cost of living increase

After a workshop meeting, Harrold consulted with each council member individually to gather input on the upcoming budget. The initial increase in the cost of living adjustment for Black Mountain town employees was later revised, following discussions with council members, mirroring a similar adjustment made in the previous year.

Proposed solid waste fee increase

The current solid waste fee for Black Mountain residents stands at $2 per month. The first draft of the new budget proposed an increase. However, after further deliberations, the proposed increase was reduced. Despite making cuts across various town projects, the revised budget still necessitates an appropriation to maintain balance.

Unassigned fund balance and budget details

The current unassigned fund balance is at 60%. The draft budget for the upcoming fiscal year amounts to $19.2 million, reflecting an increase from the current year. Harrold expressed confidence in appropriating the needed funds, stating that he “does not have any heartburn” with this decision.

Considerations on project funding

Amidst the budget adjustments, funds allocated for paving various roads around town faced a reduction. While acknowledging the importance of maintaining road infrastructure, Harrold expressed concern over the decrease in paving funding, emphasizing the need to revisit this allocation in the future.

Facility needs study and funding priorities

The council deliberated on including a facility needs study in the budget, with Harrold highlighting the subsequent implementation costs post-study. Council members discussed the possibility of postponing the study for the second consecutive year to allocate more funding towards paving projects. Despite the postponement, the council emphasized the study’s significance as a town priority.

Next steps and budget presentation

Following the recent workshop, Harrold will proceed to prepare his budget message and recommended budget for presentation to the Town Council in the upcoming weeks. Council members expressed confidence in the framework provided for Harrold to formulate his recommendations.