Yolo County officials are grappling with a significant budget challenge, facing a potential $9 million cut to vital services. During a recent Board of Supervisors meeting, discussions centered on strategies to address a structural deficit while ensuring essential programs remain intact.

The board is currently behind schedule on approving the 2025-26 Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) plan, which is crucial for securing funding. Officials aim to finalize budget recommendations by October 7, allowing for a 30-day public comment period before amending contracts with service providers in November. A final annual update is expected in December, with a follow-up plan update slated for January.

Supervisors expressed the need for accurate data to inform their decisions on which services to cut. Concerns were raised about the metrics used to assess the number of individuals served, with calls for a more comprehensive annual count rather than a quarterly average. The board emphasized the importance of reliable data to guide their difficult choices in the coming months.

As Yolo County navigates these financial hurdles, the focus remains on balancing fiscal responsibility with the community's needs. The board is committed to transparency and is seeking additional data to support their decision-making process as they prepare for the upcoming budgetary adjustments.