In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the county's financial challenges, primarily driven by inflation and rising costs associated with emergency medical services (EMS) and public safety personnel. The county has relied on its fund balance for the past two years to manage these expenses, which include salaries and benefits that have been significantly impacted by increasing healthcare costs.

The county's millage rate, which has decreased from 18.51 in 2017 to a proposed 12.64, reflects the financial strain. The county's digest has also seen fluctuations, with current figures showing a digest of approximately $1.2 billion. Officials noted that the proposed budget adjustments would result in an increase in county maintenance and operations (M&O) from $645 to $951, while joint projects would decrease from $2.75 to $1.74.

A key point of discussion was the homestead exemption, which has contributed to revenue loss but provides significant tax relief for residents. This exemption applies only to countywide M&O and has been in effect for two years, with officials estimating an average increase of $8.51 for homeowners, which they argue is manageable given the current economic climate.

The meeting concluded with a motion to tentatively set the new millage rates, which was approved unanimously. Public hearings are scheduled for August 13 and August 27 to discuss these changes further, as the adjustments are considered a tax increase due to the rollback rate. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining financial stability without resorting to borrowing, a practice they halted in 2018. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by local governments in balancing budgets while providing essential services to residents.