The Chautauqua County Human Services Committee convened on September 17, 2025, to address critical budgetary adjustments concerning the county's safety net services. The primary focus of the meeting was a resolution to amend the 2025 budget, which proposed an increase of $3.5 million in contract funds for SafeNet, while also raising the use of the fund balance by $2.385 million.

During the discussions, committee members highlighted the ongoing financial pressures faced by SafeNet, noting that expenses had surged to an average of $1 million per month since August. The original budget allocated $8 million for the year, which was deemed insufficient given the current expenditure trends. The committee expressed hope that the proposed adjustments would sustain the program through the end of the fiscal year, although they acknowledged the unpredictability of safety net costs.

A member of the committee emphasized the importance of maintaining a robust fund balance, which was anticipated to be around $34 million. This fund balance is crucial for addressing budget shortfalls without imposing additional tax burdens on residents. The committee recognized that the current request was just one of potentially many adjustments needed throughout the year.

The meeting also touched on the effectiveness of the family-centered case management team, which has been operational since April. This team has successfully prevented evictions and saved the county approximately $138,376 in local share costs through a waiver that allows for market value rent. However, the committee acknowledged that these savings, while beneficial, do not fully offset the financial demands of the safety net program.

Looking ahead, the committee indicated plans to increase the budget for safety net services in 2026, reflecting the ongoing need for adequate funding in this area. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote in favor of the proposed budget amendments, underscoring the committee's commitment to ensuring the stability of essential services for the community.