Easley Development News

City Adopts Annual Budget; Debates Overtime Reporting, Rental Taxes, and Council Operations

The council reviewed the second reading of ordinance 202616, adopting the city's annual operating budget for fiscal year July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Discussions included a request for monthly reports on overtime pay by department and person, and clarification on the 6% business license tax for rental properties. It was clarified that the 6% tax applies to second homes and rental properties, not primary residences which are at 4%. The percentage of general fund budget devoted to salaries and benefits (around 70%) was questioned in relation to funding infrastructure and core services. A discussion also ensued about a new section in the budget document that appeared in the current draft but not in prior budgets, with a council member questioning if it required an amendment vote. The council members debated the benefit and necessity of changing the swearing-in date for newly elected officers from January to after the December council meeting, with arguments presented about an extended onboarding period versus potential pay complications and the historical practice of the current system. Another amendment was proposed to clarify that the mayor is included in the consultation for the proposed agenda, addressing concerns that the mayor might be excluded. There was extensive debate on the proposed changes to the city code regarding the preparation and approval of council agendas, particularly concerning the role of the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the city administrator, with discussions on flexibility, legal issues, conflicts of interest, and the process for adding items to the agenda. Concerns were raised about the timeline for preparing ordinances for agendas, with a deadline of Tuesday prior to the meeting for written requests from three council members, and the subsequent need for the city attorney to vet these ordinances before the public agenda is released on Thursday. Finally, a discussion on contingency funds revealed plans to spend approximately $100,000 before the end of the year, including funds for fire department turnout gear, with a potential exception for an air conditioner for the chamber if installation cannot be completed in time.