COLUMBUS, Ind. — A new issue has developed as budget negotiations in Bartholomew County continue.
County commissioners have offered $200,000 from the CEDIT fund, while council members want $700,000. Council members have told the commissioners they have authority to take the extra $500,000, but the commissioners disagree. Commission president, Rick Flohr told council members they’ll have to prove they have the authority. The fund is typically used for road repair and maintenance. Commissioner Larry Kleinhenz has said budget shortfalls in past years have already put a strain on maintenance and repair funding.
Some highlights of the $19 million budget are a 2 percent raise for county employees, reducing the workweek to 37.5 hours, nine new cars for the sheriff’s department, and one additional deputy.