Franklin County officials outline target-based budgeting and seek consultant grant to close 2026 gap
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Summary
County staff presented recommendations including target-based budgeting and seeking state match funding for a strategic management planning consultant to help reduce reliance on reserves in 2026.
Franklin County staff on Feb. 26 briefed commissioners on options to close an anticipated 2026 budget gap without relying on reserve funds, recommending a target-based budgeting approach and pursuing state grant funding to hire an outside strategic management planning consultant.
County staff member Carrie introduced the presentation and Theresa Beckner, the county chief financial officer, outlined two primary recommendations: (1) implement target-based budgeting that sets department spending targets before departments submit requests; and (2) seek a grant that could pay 50% of the cost to hire a consultant to develop a strategic management and financial plan.
Theresa Beckner said target-based budgeting "is useful in an area of tightening budgets" and would tie departmental requests to county priorities and performance outcomes. On the consultant option, Beckner said outside teams can identify savings and revenue opportunities staff cannot pursue while managing day-to-day operations. Beckner said grant funding is available from the state "as high as $200,000 for each phase," and estimated the consultant engagement would cost about $120,000–$130,000 before the 50% grant match.
Commissioners asked clarifying questions about recent budget changes and reserve use. A commissioner confirmed that the 2025 county budget increased from 2024 and that reserve funds were used to cover part of the increase; Beckner confirmed the county must maintain a minimum reserve (about 60 days) to protect the county's credit rating. One commissioner said the county had saved money in prior instances when outside consultants were engaged and supported pursuing the consultant option.
Staff said they will return with refined recommendations and that commissioners had asked for at least three options to create a 2026 budget that does not rely on reserves. No formal vote was taken; the item was presented for direction and potential future action.
