The Pennington County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting on September 29, 2025, to discuss the budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2026, focusing on critical funding needs and departmental priorities. A significant point of discussion was the budget for the detox program, which the Sheriff emphasized as essential for maintaining services.

Sheriff Brian Mueller clarified that the proposed increase in the detox budget was not for new positions but rather to reinstate four counselor positions that had been inadvertently excluded from the provisional budget. These positions are crucial for generating revenue that offsets costs for Pennington County. The Sheriff warned that failing to include this funding could lead to a shortfall, requiring him to seek additional funds later in the year, which would be entirely county-funded.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the ongoing adjustments to the budget numbers, which have changed frequently leading up to the meeting. Commissioner Derritt voiced frustration over the lack of stability in the figures, emphasizing the need for clearer communication and consistency in budget proposals. The discussion highlighted the importance of accurate budgeting to ensure that essential services, particularly in public safety and health, are adequately funded.

The meeting underscored the need for transparent conversations about budget priorities, with the commission aiming to establish a clearer framework for future budget discussions. As the county prepares for the next fiscal year, the focus remains on ensuring that departments have the necessary resources to effectively serve the community. The decisions made in this meeting will have lasting implications for public services and the overall financial health of Pennington County.