Commissioners schedule follow-up sessions after sheriff levy defeat to explain numbers and messaging

Commissioners discussed next steps after Tuesday's election results and agreed to set aside time to prepare the public and the budget committee for forthcoming deliberations.

Commissioner Savas said public confusion after the sheriff levy defeat suggests the county needs clearer messaging on how rates were set and what services the levy would have paid for. "I think it behooves us to basically tell the story," Savas said, urging a short meeting before the budget week to frame options for staff.

County Administrator Gary Smith recommended waiting until the board's regular meeting on June 2 for a full discussion but offered a 30-minute slot at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26 (immediately after the budget committee kickoff), if the board wanted to provide quick direction to staff. "If you do demand so... we could have a short meeting of 30 minutes maybe on on 04:00, Tuesday, May 26, just to say, what do you want staff to bring back to you on June 2?" Smith said.

Commissioner Savas asked that Sheriff Brandenburg and her financial staff be invited to the follow-up sessions. Chair Roberts and other commissioners signaled agreement to hold the short session May 26 and devote more time June 2 to detailed data and public engagement plans.

Why it matters: Commissioners said better public explanation of levy math, contingency uses and what would be cut or preserved may be necessary before another ballot measure is considered. Smith reminded the board that any revenue impact of this levy would take effect July 1, 2027.

Next steps: The board will notice a 30-minute session for 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 26 to give staff direction and will devote substantial time on June 2 to discuss options and gather public input.