San Bernardino County Board approves 2526 budget with focus on homelessness and public services

In a bustling San Bernardino County meeting room, the air was thick with anticipation as officials gathered to discuss pivotal changes and budget allocations for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting, held on June 10, 2025, marked a significant moment for the county as it navigated through employment contracts, animal shelter services, and a comprehensive budget overview.

One of the key decisions made was the termination of Jessica Underland's employment contract as a constituent services representative, effective June 27, 2025. In her place, Jessica Bridal was approved to step in as chief of staff for the fifth district supervisor, with an estimated annual cost of $216,598. This transition reflects the county's ongoing efforts to ensure effective leadership and support within its administrative ranks.

The meeting also addressed a pressing issue concerning animal shelter services in the High Desert Region. An amendment to the contract with the town of Apple Valley was approved, increasing funding by $537,209, bringing the total to $2,821,749. This extension aims to enhance animal shelter services, a topic that sparked questions about its relevance to public health, highlighting the ongoing dialogue about community welfare and resource allocation.

As the meeting progressed, the spotlight turned to the county's budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, presented by CFO Matthew Erickson. The proposed budget, totaling $10.5 billion, reflects a slight decline of $200 million compared to previous years. Despite this decrease, significant investments were earmarked for community revitalization and homeless services, with a notable $45 million allocated to the Office of Homeless Services. This funding aims to tackle the county's housing crisis and support vulnerable populations, a topic that resonated deeply with community advocates present at the meeting.

Community voices were heard as speakers like Ifeany Lockard and Desiree Sanchez urged for increased transparency and funding for essential services. Lockard emphasized the need for community engagement in the budget process, while Sanchez advocated for more resources to combat homelessness, underscoring the critical intersection of budgetary decisions and community needs.

As the meeting concluded, the board unanimously passed several budget items, reflecting a commitment to maintaining stability and addressing the pressing needs of San Bernardino County residents. The discussions highlighted the delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and the imperative to support community welfare, setting the stage for a year of focused efforts on improving the lives of those in the county.