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Merced County outlines infrastructure, public safety and a $1.12 billion budget in 2026 state of the county
Summary
County Executive Officer Mark Hendrickson and Board Chair Darren McDaniel framed 2026 priorities around public safety, roads and fiscal discipline, noting a $1.12 billion balanced 2025 budget, a new radio system and bonds to accelerate Measure V road work including 41 miles of rehabilitation planned starting this summer.
Merced County Executive Officer Mark Hendrickson and Board Chair Darren McDaniel used the county's inaugural State of the County to present a fiscal and infrastructure agenda centered on public safety, roads and long‑term budget stability.
Hendrickson said the event was intended to increase transparency and accountability while highlighting investments that "shape the future of our communities." Chair Darren McDaniel emphasized that infrastructure connects opportunity, pointing to Measure V‑funded neighborhood repaving, a bond plan to accelerate resurfacing projects and regional corridors such as the Atwater–Merced Expressway and campus parkway that he said will reduce congestion and support economic development.
The presentation named several concrete steps: competitive raises for deputies and corrections officers, the John Laraka Correctional Center expansion to improve security and programming, investment in a new radio system and a vehicle lease program for newer patrol vehicles, and an approach to leverage Measure V revenues via bonds so a large batch of roads can be repaired at once rather than incrementally. McDaniel said these efforts were part of a balanced $1.12 billion budget for 2025.
A public works video referenced additional projects: more than 41 miles of road rehabilitation beginning this summer, two new bridge projects, and the Black Rascal Creek flood control project—work the county says will strengthen connectivity and reduce recurring flood risk. The video also reported EPA clearance to advance further phases of the Atwater–Merced Expressway.
Hendrickson framed the funding stance as disciplined: maintain reserves, monitor departmental spending, evaluate new mandates before committing ongoing dollars, and negotiate responsibly on labor and vendor costs. "Fiscal discipline is what allows us to both weather uncertainty and continue moving Merced County forward," he said.
The remarks closed with recognition of county staff across departments and a pledge to continue pursuing infrastructure, public safety and core community services as top priorities.
The county invited residents to follow up via an annual report and a coming series of public workshops called "Get to Know Your County."
