County releases simplified popular annual financial report; staff to add clearer visuals and outreach

County staff showed a condensed, user‑focused version of the 2025 financial statements intended to help residents understand where tax dollars go. Mitchell Kelly, reporting and analysis manager, and Amy Bridal, senior management analyst, walked council through highlights including a page that breaks out the county's revenue and expense 'dollar.'

"This report simplifies the financial information in a more consumable manner," Mitchell Kelly said, adding that paper copies will be placed in libraries and made available for council to use at community meetings. Staff said they will refine charts where numbers appeared confusing to some councilors (for example, reconciling the county’s total budget number with different revenue totals and clarifying internal interfund transfers). Councilors suggested clearer visuals to show which portions of the general fund support the sheriff, jail and other public‑safety functions.

The popular report also notes the county began collecting a public‑safety sales tax in June and received roughly $1.1 million in the initial distribution; staff said the funds support law and justice initiatives such as body cameras. Staff confirmed a press release and social media promotion are planned to publicize the popular annual financial report and will incorporate council feedback.