Chair Derkacs and Councilors,
First of all, I want to thank our County staff for an excellent 2025-2026 Biennial Budget Package and Citizens Guide. I found them both informative and easy to use. In regards to capital improvements, I applaud the emphasis on maintenance of existing facilities and infrastructure. Performance measures for each department were very useful.
My main concern is the budget option to add a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI) and Training Analyst. I strongly support implementing the Racial Equity and Inclusivity (REI) Task Force’s recommendations, especially the establishment of a citizen board to further advise Council and Staff on DEI. I prefer a citizen board as opposed to a dedicated County employee because this is a community problem, not a staff problem. For this reason, I oppose this budget option, and would rather save this additional staff slot for other areas.
The budget options I’m most supportive of are the Case Coordination Specialist for Social Services Division, the additional budget for implementation of Comprehensive Health Plan recommendations, and the Regional Landfill feasibility study for Public Works Department. I would also like to see discussion of possible additional budget options in support of the Social Services Division to address increasing homelessness and substance abuse, such as an additional Case Coordination Specialist, and possible support to complete a Comprehensive Transportation Plan, which would address how we will meet an increasing County population as well as regional transportation issues.
Thank you for all that you do, and I’m looking forward to watching the discussions and process proceed next week.