Dawn Wright defends Washington County Child Support Department budget against dissolution proposal

The Washington County Board of Commissioners held a public meeting on March 18, 2025, where significant discussions centered around the potential dissolution of the Washington County Child Support Department. Dawn Wright, a representative from the department, voiced strong objections to this proposal, emphasizing the department's successful track record in child support collections and its vital role in serving the community.

Wright highlighted that the Washington County Child Support Department consistently ranks as the number one in the state for collections, which she argued demonstrates its effectiveness and importance. She expressed concern that dissolving the department would not only harm single-parent households but also lead to job losses for those who work within the department, thereby compounding the financial struggles of the community it serves.

Wright further pointed out that the department operates at a low cost, with two-thirds of its expenses reimbursed by the federal government, suggesting that cutting the department could ultimately result in greater financial losses than savings. She urged the commissioners to reconsider the proposal, advocating for budget cuts in other areas instead.

In response, Chair Harrington clarified that there is currently no formal proposal to dissolve the department before the board. He noted that County Administrator Angie, who is also the budget officer, is working on a balanced budget proposal that will be presented on April 28, which may include difficult choices regarding funding.

The meeting underscored the ongoing discussions about budgetary constraints and the potential impacts on essential services within Washington County. The board's next steps will involve reviewing the proposed budget and considering community feedback as they work towards a balanced financial plan.