Forsyth County Commissioner calls for more transparency during budget process

One Forsyth County Commissioner is urging the Board to increase transparency amid its annual budget process.

Forsyth County Commissioners discuss critical decisions about funding for everything from the school system to emergency services during budget workshops. At the most recent one, officials reviewed a 75-page report outlining budget cuts for multiple departments.

But budget workshops aren’t broadcast to the public — an issue raised by Commissioner Tonya McDaniel at the Board’s regular Monday meeting. 

“I want to know why our meetings aren't televised in fairness and transparency to the constituency?" she asked. "I believe that these meetings should be available.”

County Manager Shontell Robinson told the Board it would cost $5,000 to equip the meeting room with recording gear — a price it agreed to pay. The next budget meeting on April 7 is slated to be recorded.