County finance staff and commissioners discussed recent budget amendments, a tax note deposit and the need to reconcile SB22 (SP22) funds and capital improvement accounts so the court can make informed decisions about capital purchases.

Why it matters: Commissioners said accounting housekeeping is needed to show what funds are available for capital purchases such as sheriff vehicles or building repairs. The court was told a tax note (approximately $600,000) arrived and that $400,000 was expected to be placed in capital improvement funds to cover prior purchases; records and budget amendments need clarification.

Commissioner Matthews urged that SB22 money be used for capital equipment for the sheriff's office rather than salaries: "That should not be used to pay salaries. That should be used to invest in capital equipment for the sheriff's office." Finance staff said software and reporting issues had previously skewed encumbrance displays and that staff will reverse certain budget amendments and place receipts into the intended accounts.

The court agreed to direct staff to cancel or reverse two prior budget amendments, reallocate the tax‑note proceeds to the intended funds, and present a clean reconciliation showing where money is available. Commissioners said a clear picture of available balances is necessary before approving purchases or reallocations.

Ending: Court requested reconciled reports for the next budget meeting and signaled willingness to consider capital expenditures once staff present a clear, corrected set of fund balances and encumbrances.