The Council has the ultimate decision-making powers regarding fiscal affairs. The Council has authority to view or review fiscal matters, determine proper policy, and set priority for the allocation and expenditure of county funds.
Typically these powers include:
Approving and fixing annual operating budges of all government offices and agencies. {IC 36-2-5-7}
Establishing salaries, wages, per diems, and other compensation for all county officials and employees. {IC 36-2-5-3}
Fixing tax rates and establishing levies on all county property for the purpose of raising funds to meet budget requirements in conducting county business {IC 36-2-5-11}, as well as authorizing the borrowing of money in the form of bonds and notes. {IC 36-2-6-18}
Appropriating public funds, i.e., authorizing the expenditure of county money by particular officials or departments for specific purposes. {IC 36-2-5-11 and IC 36-2-5-12}
Authorizing certain purchase or sales of county owned land{IC 36-1-11-3}.