Arapahoe County reports $2.8M projected shortfall in human services funding

Arapahoe County is facing a significant projected shortfall of nearly $3 million in its human services budget for the upcoming fiscal year, as discussed during the Board of County Commissioners Study Session on May 6, 2025. The shortfall is attributed to a combination of rising expenses in human services, which have increased at a rate higher than the revenue generated from the county's mill levy, and the depletion of federal ARPA funds that previously supported these services.

County officials highlighted that while the general fund has seen a growth of about 3%, the expenses in human services have escalated by 4-5%. This discrepancy has led to a persistent deficit, with projections indicating that the financial gap could widen if funding allocations remain flat. The county anticipates no cuts from the state level, but uncertainties loom regarding federal funding, which could further impact the budget.

The meeting also addressed the rising demand for services, with caseloads for programs such as food assistance and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) showing significant increases. For instance, food assistance cases have surged by 45% since 2019, reflecting the growing need within the community. The complexity of applications has also risen, leading to longer processing times and increased pressure on staff.

In response to these challenges, county leaders are actively reviewing spending and seeking efficiencies within their operations. They are committed to ensuring that essential services remain available to the community, despite the financial constraints. The discussion underscored the importance of maintaining funding for community partners that provide critical support, particularly in child welfare and early childhood services.

As the county navigates these financial challenges, officials emphasized the need for strategic planning and collaboration to continue meeting the needs of residents effectively. The implications of these budgetary decisions will be closely monitored as the county prepares for the upcoming fiscal year.