09/04/2026
I recognize that all of you heard one thing Tuesday night, if nothing else: the mill rate is going to 19 mils. Let me explain what our county manager was doing.
It is his job to present a balanced budget. This includes satisfying all outstanding debts. Tuesday night, he laid out a scenario that gives us a balanced budget and zero debt moving into 2027. I appreciate him doing that. He provided the information; what we do with it is up to us collectively.
What was presented is a scenario to solve the problem by December 31. While that is one way to do it, it is not the only way. I personally will not support such an increase. It will cripple the citizens of this community, regardless of your financial position.
This didn’t happen in three months, and we can’t fix it responsibly in three months. We have several tools at our disposal, and I believe taking advantage of what each one has to offer and letting them operate in concert is the best path forward.
I wanted to make sure that all of you know where my head is at, rather than just stewing over information that is hard to digest and manifesting unnecessary stress, fear, and anger. I have a plan I am working on to present to my fellow commissioners that I feel will be citizen focused, measured and responsible. Hang with me. I'm committed to fixing this for you.
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