Coos County officials are navigating a challenging budget landscape as they consider potential cuts to personnel and services during the recent Board of Commissioners (BOC) budget meeting held on December 4, 2024. A key discussion centered around the elimination of the risk manager position, which some officials argue is essential for maintaining effective risk management and insurance cost savings for the county.

During the meeting, one commissioner expressed a willingness to explore ways to save $89,000 without cutting positions, emphasizing the need for careful consideration before making any drastic reductions. The conversation highlighted the complexities of downsizing, with department heads acknowledging the risks involved in eliminating positions, particularly in specialized roles like that of the risk manager.

The proposal to eliminate the risk manager position was met with concern from other commissioners, who pointed out that the role involves specialized knowledge that may not be easily transferred to other staff members. However, the department head argued that the responsibilities could be absorbed by existing personnel, suggesting that the county would not lose its safety program.

Additionally, Commissioner Drew Farmer introduced a potential opportunity for the county to participate in a pilot program offering legal assistance to rural counties, which could enhance risk management efforts without incurring additional costs.

As discussions continue, the county is weighing the implications of immediate layoffs, which could impact unemployment costs in the current fiscal year. The BOC is expected to revisit these budgetary decisions in the coming weeks, as they strive to balance fiscal responsibility with the need to maintain essential services for the community. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial for the county's financial health and operational effectiveness moving forward.