Stanislaus County OKs $1.88 billion rollover budget to provide July spending authority

The Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors on June 23 approved a $1.88 billion rollover proposed budget to provide temporary spending authority for the start of fiscal year 2027, allowing departments to operate while staff finalizes the adopted budget this fall. The measure passed 4-1, with Supervisor Cantu voting no.

County Chief Executive Office staff said the rollover approach repeats a method used in 2021 and creates a placeholder budget that removes one-time appropriations and capital outlays, leaving ongoing base budgets plus limited time-sensitive adjustments. Chief Financial Officer Anhelica Ramos and senior consultant Patrick Cavano presented the plan, saying it provides continuity while year-end results and the state budget are finalized.

The staff recommendations include a set of time-sensitive adjustments: $4.3 million in capital outlays for sheriff replacement vehicles, $500,000 for zero-emission vehicles in public works timed to state procurement windows, and $2.7 million for general liability insurance premiums due in July. The recommended rollover supports 4,771 allocated positions and uses a combination of department revenue ($1.34 billion), county match/contributions ($34.2 million), department fund balance ($143.2 million), and general fund contributions ($364.3 million). Vacancy rate was reported at 10.8 percent as of June 10, 2026.

During questions, supervisors pressed staff on the insurance premium timing and the mechanics of transferring appropriations between legal budget units to ensure payments are made on time without late fees. Supervisor Cantu said she opposed the rollover on principle, arguing the county is too top-heavy and should prioritize front-line staffing; she also expressed concern about the size and reliance on use of fund balance. After public comment and discussion, the board approved the rollover by the required 4/5 vote threshold.

Staff were directed to return with the recommended 2027 adopted budget in September; staff noted the public hearing for consideration of the adopted budget is scheduled for September 15, 2027. The rollover establishes temporary spending authority only — policies and final allocations will be set when the adopted budget is approved later in the year.

"Given the timing of state and year-end results, the rollover lets us avoid premature base allocations and gives departments authority to operate on July 1," Ramos said during the presentation.

The board’s approval allows the county to make early payments that would otherwise incur penalties and preserves flexibility while staff completes detailed budget work.