Human Services Budget Seeks Additional $564K Amid Funding Changes and Staffing Cuts

Dunn County's Health and Human Services Committee is facing a significant budget challenge for 2026, with a proposed increase of $564,924 compared to the previous year. The committee's meeting on August 21 highlighted the need for additional funding due to the discontinuation of key grants, including one for first episode psychosis, which has been a major source of support for mental health services.

Paula, the committee's representative, detailed the budget's complexities, noting that the request reflects a total revenue of $16,142,316 against expenses of $16,707,259, resulting in a projected shortfall. The committee has already made adjustments, including the elimination of two full-time positions to help balance the budget amid these funding cuts.

The discussion underscored the ongoing fluctuations in the county's budget process, with members acknowledging that numbers may continue to change as new information becomes available. The committee is preparing to present these budgetary needs to the county board, emphasizing the importance of maintaining essential services despite financial constraints.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of these budgetary decisions will be closely monitored, particularly regarding how they will affect service delivery to the community. The next meeting is scheduled for September 25, where further discussions on the budget and its impacts are expected.