Gadsden County budget workshop flags $2.4M shortfall as ARPA support ends; EMS, equipment and mowing contracts highlighted

Gadsden County officials spent more than two hours on budget risks and options during an Aug. 4 budget workshop, hearing from staff about a roughly $2.4 million shortfall between projected revenue and planned expenditures if current assumptions hold.

The finance presenter told the board that ad valorem property taxes supply about 65% of the county general fund and that a hypothetical, broad change to state property-tax policy could reduce county receipts by about $22 million. The presenter also warned that American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds used this year to offset some recurring costs — notably about $1.9 million used to support EMS salaries — will largely expire by December 2026.

Why it matters: County leaders said those shifts would force cuts in staff, programs or services, or require use of reserves, bonding or other revenue measures. Commissioners pressed staff for more precise costs and options for leasing versus buying heavy equipment, possible contracting for roadside mowing, and funding for public safety and parks.

County finance outlook and major cost drivers

A county staff presenter summarized revenue and expense items the board will consider before its tentative budget hearing in mid-September. The presenter said a 9-mill tax rate would yield roughly $1.3 million net this year (after the 5% statutory adjustment); other restricted revenues and special levies could add to that. At the same time, staff are projecting operational cost increases of roughly $2.5 million driven by rising insurance premiums, utilities and one-time capital needs such as a new jail chiller.

The presenter said, “ad valorem taxes right now make up about 65% of the general fund,” and that if state-level property-tax proposals were to pass in a manner that…