Five-year revenue analysis prompts call for simpler summaries, three-year planning

Finance staff presented a five-year analysis of Klamath County revenue streams on Feb. 12, using averages, standard deviation and coefficient of variation to show which revenues are more predictable.

Finance staff Kieran Logan walked commissioners through charts comparing volatility across revenue sources and described statistical measures used to assess reliability. Commissioner Minty said a one-page summary of all revenue streams would improve transparency for internal stakeholders and the public. Commissioner DeGroot recommended that departments develop three-year financial plans tied to projected allocations to reduce year-to-year crisis budgeting.

Commissioner Nichols and Vickie Noel cautioned against binding departments to specific revenue streams because volatile receipts could force program cuts; they emphasized keeping flexibility and avoiding dedicating reserves that might later be reallocated. The board agreed that, as a planning baseline, departments should use last year's budgeted revenues and plan for flat appropriations over the next three years, with further adjustments to be addressed during budget hearings and workshops.

The discussion produced direction for staff to prepare simplified revenue summaries and to work with departments on multi-year planning options ahead of formal budget hearings.