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St. Francois County commissioners table final vote on proposed 2025 budget until Dec. 31
Summary
After a public hearing and extended discussion of reserves, carryforward revenues and road funding, the St. Francois County Commission voted to delay final approval of the proposed 2025 budget until its Dec. 31 meeting.
At a public hearing during the county commission meeting, St. Francois County commissioners discussed the proposed 2025 budget, then voted to table final approval until the commission’s next regular meeting on Dec. 31.
The commission reviewed revenue and reserve figures presented by county staff, including a requirement to allocate 3% of budgeted general fund revenue to an emergency fund. Staff said the currently budgeted emergency reserve stands at roughly $411,000 and that the 3% requirement would represent about $1.5 million in the proposed budget. Commissioners and staff also discussed a general stabilization fund that the county treats as a savings account; staff said some funds are carried forward from prior years and noted roughly $16 million in surplus carryforward included in revenue projections.
Commissioners reviewed high-level numbers for the proposed 2025 budget: county staff stated anticipated total revenue in the mid‑$50 million range and anticipated expenses just under $48 million, producing an estimated surplus of about $6.5 million. Commissioners emphasized that much of that surplus is restricted by program or fund (for example opioid-related funds) and is not free for general spending.
The commission also discussed ongoing and anticipated capital needs and revenue pressures, including door-lock replacements estimated at about $154,000 that are planned for early next year, and concerns about a county road tax scheduled to sunset in 2027 that county officials said could significantly affect road maintenance if not renewed. Commissioners discussed timing for placing a renewal on the ballot and noted that the commission typically seeks to renew road levies in the election prior to expiration so it is a continuation rather than a new tax.
Following discussion, a commissioner moved to table action on the proposed budget until the Dec. 31 meeting to allow two weeks for additional review and any changes requested by offices or auditors. The motion carried.
The commission invited members of the public to review printed copies available at the meeting and said staff would post slides and the final budget online after any revisions were made following the Dec. 31 action.
Ending: The commission will reconvene on Dec. 31 to consider final approval of the 2025 budget; staff said any adjustments requested during the two‑week period would be incorporated before the final vote.
