Marquette County human services warns of roughly $556,000 2024 shortfall driven by out‑of‑home placements

Marquette County Department of Human Services Director Mandy Stanley told the board on April 4 that the department expects to close its 2024 books by the June meeting and that out‑of‑home placement costs will leave the department about $556,000 in the red.

Stanley said the timing of the close is driven by State funding processes and reporting requirements. "Final 2024 books will most likely be closed by the June meeting due to State funding and processes," Stanley reported to the board and added the shortfall is attributable primarily to out‑of‑home placement expenditures.

Staff also reviewed operational pressures on the county food bank. Jennifer Vote reported that a recent windstorm destroyed the food bank's garden shed and that the deductible is higher than the cost of replacement; the department plans to use budgeted funds to replace and better secure the shed. Vote reported the food bank served 312 households in March and noted reductions in USDA and TEFAP resources that may affect supply; staff said they will solicit quotes for an upgraded freezer before making a procurement decision.

The board heard staffing and program updates that bear on future costs: Stanley said recruitment is under way for an accountant, a billing specialist and a youth mentor. Stanley also reported participation in recent law‑enforcement management meetings and on statewide advocacy work with the Wisconsin Counties Association at the State Capitol, where county staff discussed funding for multiple programs.

Procedural actions at the meeting included approval of the agenda (moved by Ken Borzick, seconded by Margaret "Peggy" Krause) and approval of the March 3, 2025 minutes (moved by Peggy Krause, seconded by Barbara Sheldon); both motions carried.

The board set its next meeting for May 5, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the County Board Room.