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County leaders warn of service cuts, furloughs if state realignments deepen FY26 shortfall
Summary
Several commissioners warned that, absent additional state support, the county may need to reduce services or consider measures such as furloughs to balance a growing FY26 budget gap; officials stressed protecting emergency services.
After staff described the projected shortfall, several commissioners cautioned residents that balancing the FY26 budget will be difficult and likely require reductions in services if state realignments increase local obligations.
President Hantz said the board's "goal is to protect staff as much as we can and not have reductions," but warned that residents would feel reductions if the county must cut tens of millions. He added, "Furloughs are not off the table. We are gonna do whatever it takes to balance this budget and there's gonna be pain."
Other commissioners echoed the need to tighten belts and keep lines of communication open with school leaders and department heads. The board emphasized priorities such as 9‑1‑1 staffing and EMS crews as services that must be maintained if possible.
