The Caldwell County Fiscal Court approved the budget on second reading, an interlocal agreement, an animal shelter adoption fee increase, and heard department updates during Tuesday’s meeting.
Magistrates approved the annual Interlocal Agreement with the Princeton-Caldwell County Fire Departments, including one amendment explained by Judge-Executive Kota Young.
click to download audioIn other action, magistrates also gave unanimous approval to the $15.8 million budget upon second reading; accepted Ben McConnell’s resignation from the Caldwell County Water District Board and appointed Jason Granstaff to fill the vacancy; and, acknowledged receipt of the Caldwell County Conservation District fiscal year 2026 budget for $240,310, the Donaldson Creek Watershed fiscal year budget of $14,325, and its annual plan of work for fiscal year 2026.
Additionally, a motion was approved to increase the adoption fee at the Caldwell County Animal Shelter to $125. This new fee will now include microchipping for every adopted pet and will take effect on July 1.
During Judge Young’s comments, he noted that the 911 Services Board received a 2025 grant of $96,266.
click to download audioDuring his report, Caldwell County Emergency Management Director Joey McCaslin announced that the Caldwell County Courthouse will stay open until further notice because of the extremely dangerous heat.
He also announced that a field day for Ham radio operators will be held Saturday and Sunday at the local airport.
click to download audioDistrict 4 Magistrate Jeff Simms expressed his appreciation to the staff of the Princeton Electric Plant Board and the Daughters of the American Revolution related to the new flags at the courthouse.
click to download audioHe explained that this is simply their first step toward making some exciting improvements to the courthouse and the square in the coming year.
click to download audioSimms concluded his comments by stating that achieving this goal will be challenging and will require the effort and cooperation of the entire community.
