Greene County Board of Commissioners meeting on Monday
The Greene County Board of Commissioners on Monday approved its $26.55 million General Fund budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year and formally accepted a $250,000 matching grant from Trillium Health Resources for a new inclusive playground.
The meeting, held at the Greene County Operations Center, addressed key financial and community development initiatives.
The proposed fiscal year 2025-26 budget, which totals $26,551,570 for the General Fund, received approval following a public hearing where no comments were submitted by the public. Vice-Chairman Jerry Jones suggested that future budget public hearings be held in the evening to potentially increase public participation. Jones also noted a need for more clarity in certain salary lines and for earlier discussions on the Global Transport and School System budgets.
A highlight of the session was the announcement and check presentation for an inclusive playground grant. David Peterson, representing Trillium Health Resources, presented a 50/50 matching grant check, with Trillium contributing $250,000 toward the total project cost of up to $500,000. The remaining $250,000 will be allocated from the county's unassigned fund balance. The playground aims to offer accessible play opportunities for all children, including those with special needs and physical disabilities. County Manager Kyle DeHaven indicated that equipment ordering would take 8 to 12 weeks, followed by approximately one month for installation. He also mentioned exploring the possibility of repurposing an existing playground for another community.
In other actions, the Commissioners:
• Proclaimed June 9-15, 2025, as Men's Health Week in Greene County. Chairman Bennie Heath read the proclamation, which advocates for educating men and boys on disease prevention, healthier lifestyles, and addressing mental and physical health needs.
• Approved an update to the Voluntary Agricultural District Ordinance. Jessica Anderson presented the update, stating it was necessary due to changes in state law regarding the definition of a bona fide farm. The program, designed to promote agricultural values and minimize legal disputes, has been inactive since 2018 with no land currently enrolled, prompting plans for a new promotional campaign.
• Authorized the county manager and finance officer to submit pay requests through a new state electronic portal for the Division of Water Infrastructure. This grants them the same authority as the chairman for timely processing of requests, though not for contractual work or change orders.
• Reappointed Sharon Smith (Pharmacist) and Lauren Pate (Registered Nurse) to the Greene County Board of Health for new three-year terms effective July 1, 2025.
• Approved budget amendments for the Senior Services Department, involving programmatic movement of funds.
County Attorney Kevin MacQueen stated he had no comments for the board at this time.
Chairman Heath announced several upcoming community events, including the NCACC District 3 meeting on Wednesday at 12:00 PM, where Fire Chief Todd Whaley will be recognized. He also noted the Greene Central High School topping ceremony on Friday at 12:30 PM and the Greene Central High School graduation on Saturday morning at 10:00 AM. The 17th annual Walterberg Proud to be an American Day event is also scheduled for Saturday, June 7.
The meeting concluded with the Board entering a closed session to discuss economic development and attorney-client privilege matters.
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