The Thurston County Board of County Commissioners held a significant meeting on September 30, 2025, focusing primarily on proposed budget reductions for the Thurston County Sheriff's Office. The meeting was marked by public comments expressing strong concerns about the impact of these cuts on public safety.

Chair Ty Minster opened the session by acknowledging the community's interest in the sheriff's budget, which is the largest portion of the county's general fund. He indicated that the board is committed to minimizing the impact of budget reductions on public safety, noting that the proposed cuts could be reduced from an initial $13.2 million to approximately $2.5 million, or less than 5%. However, he emphasized that complete elimination of cuts was not feasible while balancing the budget, as many departments would face reductions of up to 18%.

Sheriff Derek Sanders addressed the board, highlighting the challenges faced by law enforcement in Washington, which ranks last in police officers per capita. He expressed gratitude for the board's efforts to improve the sheriff's office but stressed the need for continued support to address rising crime and population growth. Sanders pointed out that the sheriff's office has historically operated with limited resources and urged the commissioners to advocate for better funding from the state.

Public comments reflected a mix of support and criticism regarding the proposed budget cuts. Many residents voiced their concerns about the potential negative effects on community safety, with some suggesting that cuts could lead to increased crime and reduced response times. Others criticized the prioritization of funding for animal services over public safety, arguing that the sheriff's office should receive adequate resources to maintain safety in the community.

Several speakers called for transparency in the budgeting process, expressing frustration over a perceived lack of information regarding budget allocations and the rationale behind proposed cuts. They urged the commissioners to reconsider any reductions to the sheriff's budget, emphasizing the importance of public safety in their communities.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing debate over budget priorities in Thurston County, particularly regarding the balance between fiscal responsibility and the need for adequate public safety funding. The board is expected to make preliminary decisions on the budget proposals in the coming days, with public sentiment strongly advocating for the preservation of funding for the sheriff's office.