Duchesne County officials are preparing for potential budget challenges as they review the tentative budget for the upcoming fiscal year during their combined working and regular meeting on October 28, 2024. The proposed budget totals $32,721,461 for the general fund, with a significant portion allocated to wages, highlighting a reliance on oil royalties to balance the budget.

Shalise, the county's budget officer, presented a breakdown of the budget, noting that the projected revenue from oil royalties is set at $8.2 million. This reliance on fluctuating oil revenues raises concerns about the county's financial stability, especially in light of past downturns in oil prices. The discussion emphasized the need for careful financial planning, with officials acknowledging that they may need to consider truth-in-taxation measures to ensure adequate funding for essential services.

In addition to the general fund, the budget includes allocations for various departments and services, such as $3.9 million for road maintenance and $2.2 million for landfill operations. The library fund is projected at $1.2 million, with discussions indicating that it may also require adjustments in the future.

The meeting concluded with plans for a final budget hearing scheduled for December 9 at 4 PM, where community members will have the opportunity to provide input. As the county navigates these financial challenges, officials are committed to transparency and ensuring that the budget reflects the needs of the community.