County manager warns of timber revenue loss, previews budget cuts and lodging-tax push

Clatsop County staff told the Board of Commissioners that the county enters the 2025 budget process with a fund balance substantially above policy but facing a possible timber revenue reduction that could hit county revenues by an estimated $3 million if fully implemented—about $1.8 million of which staff said is general fund.

County Manager and staff framed that risk as part of a wider budget strategy that includes eliminating some vacant positions, holding others open longer and reducing certain expenditures. Staff said the county’s available fund balance is roughly 34% (policy target about 20%), and that the proposed changes are intended to produce a balanced 2025–26 budget while preserving current services as much as possible.

Why this matters: The general fund pays for discretionary services—about half is used for public safety and justice in Clatsop County—and revenue losses of the size described would force choices that could touch policing, jail operations, fire support and other services used by residents and tourists.

Details from the meeting County staff said a…