County leaders discuss potential layoffs and budget adjustments amidst protests

Colfax County officials are grappling with potential layoffs as budget discussions intensify during a busy season marked by protests and operational challenges. The Colfax County Commission meeting on May 29, 2025, revealed a pressing need for budget cuts, with department heads expressing concerns over staffing levels and the impact of reductions on essential services.

During the meeting, a key point of discussion was the criteria for potential layoffs, which will be based on seniority but may also consider the critical roles of certain employees. “It burns my stomach to have to say any layoffs,” one official remarked, emphasizing the difficult nature of the decision. The commission is currently evaluating various departments, including the treasurer's office, which is heavily reliant on payroll expenditures.

The sheriff's department also faced scrutiny, with discussions around maintaining open positions while balancing budgetary constraints. Officials noted that the department's budget cuts would not include eliminating filled positions but rather focus on open roles. “We should have two open positions,” one member clarified, highlighting the need for accurate accounting in the budget.

As the commission navigates these financial challenges, the urgency to finalize budget adjustments is clear. The next steps involve assessing the final numbers from various departments before making definitive decisions on staffing. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the county's operational capabilities and service delivery in the coming months.