The Clinton County Council convened Tuesday for its annual budget hearing, where department heads presented their 2026 fiscal requests amid ongoing challenges of staff retention, rising costs, and shifting state funding. The meeting, which spanned several hours showed the balance county leaders face trying to maintain essential services and able staff. The following departments presented to county council. Cindy Miller recorded and wrote this story from the Clinton County Governments YouTube channel.
Kevin Keith
Owner/GM KNS Radio
9/10/25
Courts and Prosecutor: Staff Raises, and Retention Concerns
Both the Circuit and Superior Courts proposed largely flat budgets, with a modest 3% raise for staff. Judges cited the importance of retaining qualified personnel and maintaining indigent defense funding, while also clarifying allocations for interpreter services and juvenile case support.
The Prosecutor’s Office, meanwhile, requested notable salary increases for paralegals and attorneys, referencing a statewide salary survey and ongoing difficulties in hiring. Council members acknowledged the need for competitive compensation but stressed the importance of affordability and adherence to established salary policies.
Highway and Infrastructure: Roads and Equipment
Highway Superintendent made the case for a 5% raise for highway staff, arguing that competitive pay is essential to retaining skilled operators. Rising material costs and aging equipment also drove requests for increased funding, including $500,000 set aside for a local match to the Community Crossings grant. Council members agreed to revisit these figures in January, emphasizing the need to protect infrastructure investments.
Health Department: Navigating Funding Cuts
The Health Department faces a significant challenge with a 75% reduction in state “Health First Indiana” funding. Despite this setback, the council was assured that staff levels and services would be maintained, thanks to strategic use of reserves and alternative grants. The council debated a proposed salary increase for the administrator, recognizing the expanded responsibilities and the need to attract qualified candidates.
EMS: Efficiency, Innovation, and Compensation Debates
Emergency Medical Services Director highlighted recent cost-saving measures and reduced overtime, crediting the addition of new paramedic positions. The council debated over a proposed salary increase for the Assistant Director, ultimately approving the raise after considering market rates and the department’s exemplary performance. EMS was congratulated for its innovation and efficient use of resources.
Sheriff’s Office and Jail: Pension Adjustments and Staffing Concerns
Sheriff Rich Kelly outlined budget requests for the Jail Chemical Addiction Program (JCAP) coordinator and adjustments to transport officer pay. The council agreed to reduce pension contributions to recommended actuarial levels, freeing up funds for new positions. Discussions also touched on vehicle replacement, commissary management, and the challenges of filling the records clerk vacancy.
Retention, Equity, and Fiscal Discipline
Throughout the meeting, council members wrestled with the tension between strict adherence to salary surveys and the need for exceptions in unique cases. Retention and market competitiveness came up often.
The council spoke to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and the strategic use of grants and reserves to sustain services.
Next Steps and Pending Decisions
While most budgets saw only modest increases, several key decisions remain pending, including a potential work session to address salary inconsistencies. Council members also committed to monitoring health insurance premium increases.