During the Lake County E911 Authority Board Regular Meeting on October 7, 2025, a significant focus was placed on budget projections for 2026, with discussions highlighting the importance of accurate financial forecasting for emergency services. Board members reviewed historical data and preliminary estimates, emphasizing the need for a balanced budget that reflects the operational demands of dispatch services.

The meeting revealed that the board is working on refining its financial projections, particularly concerning the estimated costs associated with dispatch operations. A key point raised was the need to finalize a rolling average payment split among various agencies, including the sheriff's office, police department, fire, and EMS. This split is based on call volume and aims to ensure fair distribution of costs among the agencies involved.

One board member noted, "We’re trying to use some historic numbers and project some growth based on our increases," indicating a methodical approach to budgeting that relies on past performance to inform future needs. The discussion also touched on the potential for rolling over fund balances to reduce agency payments, which could alleviate financial burdens on local services.

As the board prepares for upcoming work sessions, they aim to gather more precise data, including work order numbers, to enhance their financial planning. The urgency of these discussions underscores the critical nature of funding for emergency services, with board members expressing a commitment to ensuring that agencies are not overburdened financially.

In conclusion, the Lake County E911 Authority Board is actively engaged in shaping a budget that supports effective emergency response while balancing the financial responsibilities of its member agencies. The next steps will involve finalizing projections and ensuring all necessary data is available for informed decision-making.