Commissioners slated to continue budget discussions during Tuesday meeting

The Scotts Bluff County Commissioners will hear updates on its budget discussions during its meeting on Tuesday. The commissioner's regular meeting is being held on Tuesday due to the Labor Day holiday. Scotts Bluff County Management Accountant Robert Simpson has been leading budget discussions for months now, working with each department as commissioners sought to keep budget increases to 1.5%. Though not all budgets were kept within that parameter, discussion during a recent budget hearing indicated that many adjustments were made to keep increases to a minimum. Simpson is slated to present an updated preliminary budget during the commissioner's meeting as it nears finalization. One of the key points of discussion during a recent workshop was whether county employees who are not already slated for a step or salary increase due to union negotiations should receive a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) increase. Simpson told the Star-Herald that the county has 235 employees, not including elected officials. Of those employees, 122 are eligible for a COLA either annually, biannually or every five years, depending on the length of employment. Discussion of a COLA increase is listed on the agenda. Also during Tuesday's meeting, a public hearing will be held on the sale of 2.54 acres owned by Scotts Bluff County and three lots in Lyman. Scotts Bluff County Assessor Robert Simpson previously told the commissioners that the lots are surplus and are not being used by the county. The commissioners are also slated to discuss approval of a contract with the county's sheriff's union, consideration of special designated liquor licenses for Rosita's Restaurant at upcoming events, and contract negotiations with the communications center. Discussion regarding the consideration of a settlement on a Tax Equalization and Review Commission case is also on the agenda. An executive session regarding a personnel matter is also listed on the agenda. The personnel who may be the subject of the discussion is not identified on the agenda. The commissioner's meeting is held at 4:30 p.m. at the Scotts Bluff County Administration Building in the commissioner's room on the second floor. A complete agenda is available on the county's website, scottsbluffcountyne.gov. Contact Maunette Loeks: maunette.loeks@lee.net, 308-632-9054. Get local news delivered to your inbox!