Budget Committee Meet For Budget Basics As Season Begins

The Jefferson County Budget Committee met Monday, March 10, 2025 for the purpose of receiving information on budget basics that they will see as they enter budget season later this month. Jefferson County Finance Director Jessica Elder presented the committee and the general public in attendance with a general budget outline including how particular monies are categorized to meet state expectations.

Director Elder explained that the committee will enter this budget season north of $1.5 million dollars in the deficit, with a large portion being attributed to natural increases in insurance, utilities, cost of living and emergency vehicle replacement.

Jefferson County Commission Chairman Carmichael presided over the meeting, opening with a moment of silence for long time Budget Committee Chair Scarlett who passed away unexpectedly on February 25, 2025. Chairman Carmichael noted the profound loss and impact that John Neal Scarlett’s passing would have on the Budget Committee and the Jefferson County Commission.

In attendance at the informational meeting were members Bales, Huffaker, Brooks, Solomon, Carmichael and Thomas.

The Jefferson County Budget Committee will begin work on the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget in earnest on Monday, March 24, 2025 when they will review Capital Projects, Debt Service Funding and Non Profit requests.