STAFF REPORT
Hays County Judge Bert Cobb has recommended in his Fiscal Year 2013 budget to hold to the current tax rate of .4961 cents. The budget is considered the starting point for the court to use in working with elected officials and department heads to finalize the finances for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins October 1.
The recommended budget includes a two-percent pay increase for law enforcement officers covered under the county’s collective bargaining agreement, at an estimated cost of $265,000 (including fringe benefits); a three-percent merit pool for all full-time employees including elected officials, estimated to cost $691,000 (including fringe benefits); consolidating the Government Center’s security budget into the sheriff’s office operating budget – to give more flexibility in staffing and to ensure the funding of social services agencies at the same level as the 2012 budget.
The commissioners court began budget workshops with department heads and elected officials Tuesday, during the regularly scheduled commissioners court meeting, and is expected to continue the workshops during the Aug. 14 meeting. Additional meetings will be scheduled if needed. Public hearings on the budget will be scheduled when workshops are concluded. By law, a budget must be adopted by Sept. 30.
The public is invited to attend the workshops or watch online. More information and preliminary documents are available by visiting www.co.hays.tx.us and choosing the 2013 budget icon on the home page.
