Pennington County plans budget adjustments and applies for opioid enforcement grant

In the dimly lit chambers of the Pennington County Board of Commissioners, discussions unfolded around the fiscal year 2026 budget, revealing a landscape of adjustments aimed at addressing pressing community needs. As the clock ticked on June 26, 2025, officials navigated through a series of budgetary changes that reflect both challenges and opportunities for the county.

One of the key topics was the adjustment of law enforcement staffing and funding. The board decided to reduce funding for a deputy position in Wall, reallocating resources to ensure continued coverage and service. This decision was made in light of anticipated grant funding from the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) program, aimed at combating methamphetamine and opioid-related issues. The county plans to apply for this grant in the fall, which could help offset the funding reductions made in the current budget.

Despite the cuts, the board emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate staffing levels, particularly in the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team (UNet), which plays a crucial role in addressing drug-related crime. The budget adjustments resulted in a reduction of approximately $77,000 in law enforcement staffing costs, alongside a $10,000 decrease in the operations budget.

The conversation also turned to the jail budget, where staffing levels remained unchanged, but operational costs saw an increase of about $160,000. Factors contributing to this rise included higher medical costs for inmates and increased food expenses. The board acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by a reduction in revenue from U.S. Marshals, which has significant implications for the overall budget.

In a notable development, the county established an opioid budget for the first time, utilizing funds from a settlement related to opioid litigation. This budget aims to support counseling services for individuals struggling with addiction, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing the opioid crisis in the community. The board noted that additional funds would continue to flow into the county over the next 15 years, providing a potential lifeline for ongoing initiatives.

As the meeting progressed, the commissioners expressed a desire to explore further opportunities for collaboration with local entities, including Rapid City, to optimize the use of available resources. The discussions highlighted a commitment to not only managing the budget effectively but also to enhancing services that directly impact the community's well-being.

In conclusion, the Pennington County Board of Commissioners is navigating a complex budget landscape, balancing necessary cuts with strategic investments in public safety and health. As they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year, the focus remains on securing funding and resources to tackle the pressing issues of drug enforcement and community health, ensuring that the county remains resilient in the face of ongoing challenges.