The Grand County Budget Advisory Board convened on October 3, 2025, to discuss critical funding needs and future projects for the county. A significant focus of the meeting was a proposed budget allocation of one million dollars for enhanced security and control systems across various county facilities.

The proposal aims to implement a comprehensive security system that includes not only surveillance cameras but also key card access for all county buildings, such as the courthouse, airport, and roads department. The initiative is intended to modernize security measures and address current vulnerabilities, as existing systems have been deemed inadequate. The speaker emphasized that a unified approach to upgrading security would be more cost-effective than a piecemeal strategy, potentially saving money in the long run.

Concerns were raised regarding the county's failure to meet certain cybersecurity audit standards, highlighting the urgent need for improved security protocols. The speaker noted that without proper funding for these upgrades, departments would continue to face challenges in maintaining secure facilities.

In addition to security upgrades, the board discussed the condition of the Veterans Memorial, which is in need of redesign and repair. Suggestions were made to seek community donations and volunteer labor to support the project.

The meeting also touched on the county's capital fund, with discussions about the lack of contributions in recent years. Board members expressed the need for a structured plan to replenish the capital fund to ensure future projects can be adequately financed.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of addressing security needs and maintaining county infrastructure, with a call for proactive budgeting and community involvement in upcoming projects. The board plans to present these funding requests to the county commission for consideration in the upcoming budget cycle.