The key strength of Cornelius’ proposed budget is the significantly reduced annual increase in personnel and operating expenses. From 2000 to 2010, these fixed core costs of running Cornelius jumped from $5 million to $12.3 million with annual, compounded growth rates of 9.8 percent for personnel and 8.9 percent for operating per year. This is the main reason I voted against these budgets since joining the Board in 2005. For our proposed FY 2012 budget, we’re looking at a 3.8 percent increase in personnel and a 1.5 percent decrease in operating expense for a combined increase of 1.2 percent next year. Big improvement.

In my opinion, the personnel increase is still too high for current conditions. Town management is pushing for a 3.4 percent increase in town employee pay next year. 

I’ll make a motion Monday to contain permanent pay increases next year to 2.3 percent — well above this year’s estimated federal cost of living adjustment (COLA). ... Cornelius town employees have had average annual compounded pay increases of 4.4 percent per year over the last 10 years. If my fellow commissioners find 2.3 percent too harsh, then we can put the balance of 1.1 percent in a one-time bonus pool. This would total the town manager’s same recommended 3.4 percent, but ease off on what is added permanently to fixed annual compensation cost.

Some call me “Commissioner Grinch.” I’m not bothered by it. Taxpayer dollars are sacred and cost containment during times like these is essential.

— Dave Gilroy, Cornelius