The Budget Process

Departments prepare the original budget request in a standardized format and meet with the County Administrator, and County Finance Director, to review the request. Dennis and Dean have also prepared projections of revenues from property taxes, state and federal governments and other sources. The departments typically estimate revenues from fees and grants.

After meeting with all departments, the Administrator and Finance Director face the difficult task of recommending what requests will be able to be met or not met, given available funds. Each year, the requests for expenditures are greater than available funds.

The recommendation is shared with departments and budget hearings are held with the County Board to hear about the budget requests. The County Board then decides on the final budget.

Just less than one-half of our revenue comes from property taxes and about 15% comes from state and federal government. About 60% of the County's expenses are in public safety and the Courts, with another 15% in public health and mental health.