County staff outlines budget outlook, pay study and possible general sales‑tax ballot measure

County staff briefed the Plumas County Behavioral Health Commission on the county's budget position, a planned salary‑survey effort and the idea of placing a general sales‑tax measure on the ballot to support wages and services.

Staff reported that the county used roughly $12.5 million in fund balance to balance the prior year's budget and that the county intends to complete a comprehensive salary survey for all positions by February–March next year. The salary survey will inform efforts to set competitive wages; staff said an interim 10% pay increase was given to many bargaining units while the survey is completed.

On revenue options, a county staff member described a potential general sales tax measure and said the research used during prior public‑safety measure workshops estimated a three‑quarter‑cent general sales tax would raise about $2 million annually. Staff noted a general sales tax requires a simple majority (50%+1) to pass; a special‑purpose sales tax limited to a single use requires a two‑thirds vote.

Staff emphasized that about half of the county's sales‑tax receipts come from nonresidents and visitors, which staff argued spreads the tax burden beyond local residents. The briefing also referenced an internal plan for board‑level strategic objectives that would accompany the budget process, and stated the recommended budget was scheduled to be posted on September 5 (staff timeline given during the meeting).

Why it matters: County workforce stability and behavioral‑health staffing depend on budget priorities and competitive wages. Commission members raised pay, vacancy levels and the role of county general‑fund constraints during the exchange.

Ending: Staff said the board of supervisors would need to place any sales‑tax measure on the ballot and that such measures have different thresholds depending on whether the tax is general or special. Commissioners requested follow‑up information as budget documents are finalized.