In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant budgetary requests aimed at enhancing public safety and infrastructure within the county. The sheriff's office is seeking to add five deputy positions, which would increase their total to 37 deputies, allowing for better coverage across the county's expansive 500 square miles. The sheriff emphasized the need for additional personnel to manage rising demands, particularly during peak times such as game weekends.

To support these new positions, the sheriff requested an increase in the budget for overtime from $10,000 to $60,000, enabling the department to call in additional officers as needed without financial constraints. He also highlighted the necessity for improved resources, including a proposed increase in the budget for law enforcement supplies from $17,500 to $25,000, to equip new deputies adequately.

In addition to personnel requests, the sheriff outlined a need for enhanced technology and infrastructure, including $58,000 for internet services for patrol vehicles and a camera system for the department's gym. He also proposed increasing the gasoline budget from $100,000 to $120,000 to accommodate the additional deputies.

On the infrastructure front, discussions included a request for $915,000 in funding for vehicle purchases and repairs, as well as increases in various maintenance budgets due to rising costs of parts and supplies. The county is looking to replace aging equipment and vehicles, with plans to sell off older, unusable trucks to help offset costs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to improving public safety and maintaining infrastructure, with officials expressing the need for adequate funding to meet growing demands. The proposed budget increases will be reviewed further as the county prepares for the upcoming fiscal year.