Liberty Township takes hard look at budget

LIBERTY — Fiscal concerns loomed large during a special township trustees meeting today.

As of Dec. 1, the township has a negative fund balance of $124,595, and it continues to be in a state of fiscal caution as designated by the state auditor.

At the last meeting, two trustees came out in favor of purchasing a Ford police car for about $13,000. Fiscal Officer Steve Shelton, however, said such a purchase would be irresponsible.

Though the police department will have a positive fund balance of $66,868 at the close of this month, Shelton’s projections indicate the department’s fund balance will operate with an $81,401 deficit by the end of January and a $227,865 deficit by the end February.

While trustees have the authority to vote on such purchases, Shelton said, as fiscal officer, he would refuse to certify the expenditure.

There was some discussion as to how far Shelton’s authority extends to block such a purchase.

Township officials have asked Law Director Mark Finamore to shed light on the issue at the regular meeting next Monday.

For the complete story, read Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com