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Arapahoe County public health reports full-year revenue but warns of looming cuts
Summary
Finance staff reported year-end figures showing nearly all budgeted revenue collected and an unaudited fund balance, but highlighted several known program cuts, a possible $3.3 million state reduction to local public health, and uncertainty around Medicaid changes for 2026–27.
Arapahoe County Public Health reported strong year-end accounting results but cautioned the board about known program funding reductions and uncertainty tied to state budget and Medicaid policy changes.
Brianna, who presented the fourth-quarter financial update, told the board the department collected essentially 100% of its budgeted revenue for the year, including roughly $15 million in grant revenue. Total expenses were near $24 million, with about $20 million of that for salaries and benefits.
"We collected essentially a 100% of our budgeted revenue," Brianna said during the presentation.
She identified several confirmed or notified funding cuts for 2026–27: an approximately 72% reduction (about $26,000) to a cancer prevention and early detection line, a 15% cut (about $23,000) to CHAP funding, and a roughly 76% reduction (about $36,000) to STI prevention and control funds. Brianna said a NACCHO grant had offset some of the harm-reduction reductions but may not fully replace the lost funding.
Brianna also reviewed the department's public-health fund balance (unaudited as of March 6), noting an on-hand balance of about $147,000 and a planned contribution of somewhat less than $900,000 for 2025 after accounting rules. The board's reserve policy targets four months of appropriated expenditures.
Separately, she flagged a proposed $3.3 million reduction to local public health included in the governor's budget; the Joint Budget Committee was reported to have been deadlocked on that line item. Board members and staff stressed the uncertainty around Medicaid changes, including possible work requirements, and said careful scenario planning and continued grant applications would be needed.
Board members thanked staff for a smooth year-end close and for proactive tracking of funding risks and contingency planning.
