In a recent meeting of the Curry County Board of Commissioners, discussions centered around a proposed levy aimed at bolstering public safety through the sheriff's department. The atmosphere was charged with urgency as commissioners sought clarity on whether the sheriff supported the initiative, which is set to be presented to voters.

One commissioner emphasized the importance of understanding the sheriff's stance, noting that previous budget cuts had significantly impacted public safety. "The sheriff has voiced over and over again that you are taking away public safety," the commissioner stated, highlighting the need for a dedicated funding source that would allow the sheriff's department to rebuild and operate independently of fluctuating general fund allocations.

The conversation revealed a shared concern among commissioners about the adequacy of the proposed levy. While one commissioner acknowledged that the amount requested might not fully meet the department's needs, he expressed hope that it would pass, stating, "We believe this is the least amount we could ask for while still getting the most bang for our buck."

Another commissioner recounted a previous miscommunication regarding the timing of the levy, which had prevented a proposal from reaching the ballot sooner. He expressed his support for moving forward with the current initiative, reinforcing the sentiment that the community deserves a chance to weigh in on the funding of public safety.

As the meeting concluded, there was a palpable sense of determination among the commissioners to ensure that the sheriff's department receives the support it needs. The proposed levy, now set to be placed on the ballot, represents a critical step toward restoring confidence in public safety services within Curry County. The outcome of this initiative will ultimately rest in the hands of the voters, who will decide if they are willing to invest in the safety and security of their community.