Monroe County Council reviews budgets, hears auditor on $8.35 million shortfall; approves multiple departmental budgets and line-item amendments

Monroe County Council met in a budget work session Thursday, Sept. 4, to continue review of proposed 2026 departmental budgets and consider several mid-cycle line-item changes.

Auditor Bree Gregory told the council the county's total requested budget across projection funds was $136,010,361 and that recent reductions left a projected deficit of $8,354,554. "If we keep the property tax levy at about $23,000,000 as planned at this time, we anticipate ending 2026 with a $13,900,000 balance," Gregory said, noting that projected year-end cash would be below the county's stated minimum fund balance of $15,000,000.

The council approved a slate of departmental budgets and amendments during the meeting. The body adopted line-item changes requested by departments, accepted reductions proposed by several departments, and approved amendments to the aviation department's proposed purchases. Council members voted on each appropriation by roll call.

Why it matters: The auditor's figures show the county needs to close an $8.35 million gap to maintain reserves at policy levels; council votes on fund transfers and self-insurance appropriations this fall will affect property-tax pressure, department spending and the timing of budget decisions.

Aviation budget, FAA privacy rule and ARPA drainage overlap

The council reviewed the Monroe County Airport's proposed operating budget and several requested adjustments from airport staff. Airport representative Carlos Laverty outlined $97,525 in cuts and $8,300 in increases and described specific capital and safety needs, including…