Edmonson County Fiscal Court Struggle with Budget Shortfalls
Judge Exec. Lindsey answers question about budgets. PHOTO | Rrene Duvall
Lynn Bledsoe
Gimlet Managing Editor
Edmonson County Fiscal Court held its regular meeting on September 28, 2026. All Magistrates were present except for Mickey Johnson.
Questions were asked about the Magistrates monies. The records show a large amount but in reality they do not have that amount. This money is normally spent on road improvements. Judge Exec. Lindsey explained the actual budget amounts are guess work versus what the county actually receives so they have an idea of what amounts they have to work with. In cases as of this year the budget ideas were sent out then the state shorten the monies considerably. Magistrate Massey asked several questions about budgets and loans. Massey stated he would rather see what he actually has instead of a projected amount even if it takes longer to get the amounts. Treasurer Tammi Willhite stated she could wait and not use projects but to use the actually amount that each will receive. Judge Exec, said they will make the budgets from the projected amounts, but the amounts to the Magistrates will be left blank or with what amount they have at the time, until the new payments come in and then it will change, and the Magistrates will be notified.
Massey also asked about Money Markets. Willhite said the county use them to keep interest at a more steady rate.
Judge Lindsey stated the 911 surcharge was down again from Windstream. In November they are looking at the 911 charge being on the water bills and that will be used only for E-911 but will bring relief to the General Fund not having to fund E-911. Willhite stated money from ARPA was transferred to the General Funds and has been used for General expenses at times, such as Road Department equipment and Sheriff’s Department vehicles. FEMA reimbursements were also mentioned. Judge Lindsey said if the porch project could be held off it would help until they could get in some more revenue. Massey stated that the contractor needs to be contacted and things explained to him. Willhite explained she is moving things around to stretch the money with things such as the old jaws of life truck being moved to the Park and Rec. department to save not purchasing a truck for them. Judge Lindsey blames the cuts in the State budgets for the counties as to the problems Edmonson County is facing now.
Road report mowers still out. Tiles have been installed in several areas.
County Clerk, Kevin Alexander reported the tax sale was held. $8,000 was raised over all the districts. Once the tax bill is bought a lien is placed on the property after time if the lien is not paid then a court action can be filed to take possession of the property. Alexander said he is not expecting a huge turn-out for the election. You must bring your picture ID to vote in the election. On Oct. 31 the office will be open at 6:00am until 2:00pm due to Trick or Treating.
Kevin Alexander explains about property tax sales. PHOTO | Rrene Duvall
Parks and Rec. Director Cody Stewart. Little League Soccer is going good Halloween on Sq at 4 on Sat.
Committee reports Contact landowners to allow petition from owners on the roadway effecting their property in the Cox road, Barbee Lane area.
New business;
The Fiscal Court acknowledged the City of Brownsville 2026 tax rates.
The Fiscal Court approved Ordinance EC26-26 for the first reading of the speed limit on C. White Road being set at 25 mph.
The Fiscal Court tabled the preventative maintenance service agreement for the Community Center, the Courthouse and other buildings, such as Parks and Rec., Dispatch and others.
