The Neosho County Work Session held on September 3, 2025, focused on budgetary discussions, particularly regarding the mill levy and capital improvements. County officials reviewed two budget drafts, one including a $250,000 allocation for capital improvements and the other without it.

The draft with the capital improvement funding would result in a mill levy of 2.334 below the revenue neutral rate, while the alternative draft would still keep the mill levy at 0.701 below revenue neutral. Currently, the mill rate stands at 156,900.

Officials expressed concerns about the uncertainties surrounding the budget, questioning whether it was prudent to decrease the mill levy significantly given the unknown factors affecting revenue. The discussions highlighted the balancing act between funding essential projects and maintaining fiscal responsibility.

As the county moves forward, the implications of these budget decisions will be closely monitored, especially in light of the ongoing uncertainties. Further deliberations are expected as officials aim to finalize the budget in the coming weeks.