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St. Clair County raises reserve target to 25% of major unrestricted funds
Summary
The county commission amended its financial management policy to increase the recommended reserve from 20% to 25% of combined unrestricted general and road-building funds, effective on adoption. Commissioners said current balances exceed the new threshold.
The St. Clair County Commission approved an amendment to the county financial management policy raising the minimum reserve target from 20% to 25% of major unrestricted funds (counting the general fund and road-building fund together). The change was adopted at the meeting and is effective immediately.
Chair (Speaker 2) explained the policy mechanics and offered an illustrative example: if the two unrestricted funds totaled $20 million, a 25% reserve requirement would mean maintaining at least $5 million in unrestricted reserves. Commissioners emphasized that restricted funds (such as 9-1-1 or opioid-related accounts) are not affected by this change because they are governed by separate restrictions or boards.
Supporters said the county currently holds more than the new minimum, giving the commission flexibility while formalizing a more conservative target. Commissioners voted to adopt the amendment by voice vote and directed that the policy be implemented and monitored under existing procedures.
Next steps: county finance staff will incorporate the 25% reserve target into financial monitoring and report back as part of routine budget oversight.
