The Clinton County Council convened on September 23, 2025, for its second round of budget hearings, facing critical decisions about public safety funding, departmental staffing, and looming fiscal uncertainties. The meeting, marked by candid discussions and tough choices, focused heavily on the Sheriff’s budget and the future of the county’s lucrative federal inmate program.
At the heart of the session was concern over that federal inmate program, a major revenue source that could dry up by mid-2026. Council members highlighted the risk of contract gaps as the sheriff’s office transitions leadership next year. Auditor projections indicated a possible $750,000 shortfall, though recent revenue upticks offered a glimmer of hope. The council agreed to fund critical positions through June/July 2026 and pledged to revisit staffing if federal contracts falter.
Sheriff’s Department staffing dominated the agenda, with merit deputies prioritized for continued funding. Jailers’ positions, however, remain contingent on inmate counts. The council voted to remove $400,000 earmarked for vehicles, shift the CSI position to another fund, and provide only half the requested jailer funding until revenue clarity improves. A request to increase the matron’s salary was denied, with councilors noting the position is already well-compensated compared to neighboring counties.
The council discussed the impact of new local income tax legislation (SB1), which will replace existing rates and require strategic sub-funds to ensure targeted spending. Facility maintenance also drew attention, as members weighed the costs of maintaining an aging jail against the risks of building a new one amid financial uncertainty.
Other departments saw notable budget actions:
- Extension Program: Approval for county-funded benefits for a new full-time assistant.
- Recorder’s Office: Salary adjustments to ensure parity among deputies.
- Clerk’s Office: Denial of a $3,000 stipend, citing existing compensation.
- Central Dispatch: Relocation of the final Motorola payment to the public safety fund.
- Area Plan: Support for new assistant and inspector roles, with flexibility for hiring challenges.
- Grounds Maintenance: Reclassification and salary increase for skilled maintenance staff.
Health insurance premiums emerged as a major concern, with the council budgeting for a 10% increase despite warnings of possible hikes up to 30%. Members instructed the benefits committee to work within the set limit. Wage increases were proposed on a two-tier system: 1% for employees above midpoint, 2.5% for those at midpoint, along with continued longevity pay.
The council postponed the third budget reading to late October, awaiting final insurance figures.