We the citizens of Fairfield County were given a new budget on June 24 after the third reading of the ordinance. It was at this time, just six days before the new fiscal year, that council attempted to deal with the low salaries being paid to our Sheriff’s deputies. I was very disappointed no council member seconded the motion made by Peggy Swearingen to increase starting salaries to $50,000. However, my biggest disappointment is what this meeting represented. This meeting clearly demonstrated to me the lack of process in setting the budget, and the lack of leadership.
Regarding process, there was a process, but it fell far short of being meaningful. I attended several budget workshops last year and this year, and I witnessed the same thing both times. Department directors stood up in front of council and stated what their budget was this year and what they were asking for next year. And almost without exception the requests were for more money. Not one time did I hear a council member ask “What have you spent so far this year against your budget?” Not one time did I hear any discussion or challenge on how the department could become more efficient and reduce costs, and therefore our taxpayer burden. Is it possible that council members were provided all this information in the notebooks they all received prior to the workshop, and we the public were not able to view it? I doubt it, but if they did, then why weren’t these questions asked?
The financial priorities for the county should have been set at the very first workshop, and those funding priorities should have been resolved well before the third reading and approval of the budget ordinance. And in my opinion, the safety and health of the citizens should be the top priority. After funding the ongoing operations needed to run our county government, the Sheriff’s office and fire and EMS departments should be top priority. And if there is not enough money to satisfy all those needs, then action should be taken as to where costs can be trimmed elsewhere. And for Heaven’s sake, do not take it from the Animal Control department. Those folks are next in line for more money, not less.
The lack of effective leadership results in the lack of effective process, and for two years I have witnessed both. The lack of effective process leads to a budget without a sufficient basis in understanding what is being funded. And last year it led to a tax increase for all of us. I certainly agree with Chairman Pauley; those of you in District 5 really do need to do your research before voting in November, 2026!
Don Goldbach
Lake Wateree