Commissioners approve budget and SPLOST adjustments, fund culvert relines and sheriff vehicle purchases

Walker County commissioners voted on budget and SPLOST amendments and approved a series of infrastructure and vehicle purchases during the meeting.

The board approved a fiscal year 2026 budget amendment that increases revenues and expenditures by $549,000 and includes a $269,000 transfer to 911 and fire. County finance staff said revenue collections in the current year were running ahead of prior expectations and that the amendment was discussed at a March 24 budget work session.

The board also revised the 2020 SPLOST project list to reallocate funds based on updated project costs and added funding for work including the Hinkle fire station and landfill regulatory needs. "This action revises the amounts so we can see what is available to spend in the future," the county CFO said.

On capital maintenance, commissioners approved two culvert relining contracts to Chase Reline totaling $119,000 (Powder Springs Circle, $32,500; SR‑136 & Abney Drive, $86,500), funded from 2020 SPLOST. Chair members described the work as necessary infrastructure repairs.

The sheriff’s office requested replacement vehicles. The board approved purchase orders to Jenkins Chrysler Dodge Jeep for $296,520 for seven Dodge Durango pursuit vehicles and to Jackie Jones Automotive for $85,737 for two additional vehicles; staff said the vendors offered competitive pricing or on‑lot availability and monies were available in the SPLOST allocations for fleet replacements.

Separately, the board denied a sole‑source purchase order to a single contractor for heating and air duct repair at the Fleet and Public Works building, voting to seek at least two additional competitive bids before proceeding. Commissioners said they prefer multiple bids on public work even when they have a preferred vendor and that the denial ensures competitive pricing for taxpayers.

All budget, SPLOST and purchase decisions recorded during the meeting were approved by majority vote and recorded in the meeting minutes for follow‑up by finance, public works and procurement staff.