Board of aldermen oppose front-office consolidation
Robbinsville – June 28’s special-called budget hearing for the Town of Robbinsville included just under nine minutes of open session.
But during the hour-plus closed (executive) session, the board of aldermen swiftly eliminated a proposal from interim finance director Michael Richardson to consolidate the administration and finance departments under one umbrella: “Town Administration.” The newly-created department would have cost $123,491.84 to launch, but Richardson’s plan hoped to streamline contact for residents and town employees alike – since administration and finance so often overlap.
Richardson pointed out in the draft budget he prepared that 87 percent of the department’s cost is offset by reductions in the finance department; the other 13 percent represented only 1/5 of an increase to the budget.
Neither alderman offered a public comment about why the proposal was struck down. Kenneth Hyde made the motion to adopt the budget, and said the salaries and benefits set aside would be moved to the finance department; while all other expenditures would be placed under “Governing Body.” Debbie Beasley seconded the motion, verifying the 2-0 vote.
Another proposal by Richardson was accepted, albeit with a stipulation.
Much like the finance-officer position, the street/highway/sanitation department has been hampered by constant turnover – so Richardson opted for a $53,624.32 bump in salaries, in hopes of retaining workers. Hyde said while making the motion that the salaries would be implemented after the town’s audit is completed.