Nelson County Fiscal Court approves sheriff's budget over sheriff's objection

The Nelson County Fiscal Court voted Jan. 6 to adopt the sheriff's 2026 budget and a maximum pay order after a prolonged discussion about how the sheriff's revenues and expenses will be handled.

During deliberations the sheriff said the document before the court lacked detailed, line-item expenses and said he would not sign the version presented. "I will not sign this budget," the sheriff said, listing items he said were missing, including vehicle purchases and equipment such as cameras.

County Treasurer Rhonda and the presiding official said the arrangement reflects a change in how fees and expenses will be processed: revenue will continue to be recorded in the sheriff's office, but expenses and payroll will be paid through the fiscal court. Treasurer Rhonda said the fiscal court will integrate the sheriff's late-year revenues into the county's fiscal-year 2027 budget and, in the interim, will use transfers or budget amendments to pay any expenses before June 30.

Judge moved to accept the sheriff's budget and maximum pay order "as presented"; Jeff made the motion and John seconded it. The court held discussion about the need for cooperation and clearer accounting. The motion passed; at least one magistrate, Adam, recorded a vote against the motion.

The court also requested a breakout of the sheriff's expenses so members can reconcile differences between the sheriff's itemized budget and the fiscal court's consolidated presentation. Officials noted that most sheriff revenue arrives late in the calendar year and will be accounted for in next year's budget process.

Next steps: staff will provide the requested expense breakdown and bring any needed budget amendments or transfers to the fiscal court for approval before funds are spent.

(Reporting supported by meeting transcript.)