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Sheriff Mingus warns fuel costs could push department $10,000–$16,000 over budget
Summary
Sheriff Mingus told commissioners that if last month's fuel usage continues annualized, the department could be roughly $10,000'$16,000 over the fuel line; staff suggested waiting to adjust estimates until spring unless commissioners prefer an immediate amendment.
Sheriff Mingus told the commission that recent fuel-price volatility and current monthly usage could push the sheriff's department over its fuel appropriation next fiscal year.
"If we do what this month shows, we would be, you're right, $16,000 over," Mingus said, adding that if prices fall and recent lower-usage months hold, the department could end the fiscal year near $85,000 for that line item.
A commissioner asked whether the high monthly figure represented a single "hot month" or an ongoing trend; Mingus said fuel prices rose in recent months but were beginning to come down and that prior years had seen similar swings that later moderated. He offered two options: increase the line item now or monitor usage and adjust at year-end.
Cameron, a staff member, cautioned that other lines such as electricity and vehicle components can show similar volatility and recommended maintaining current estimates and adjusting next spring unless commissioners instruct otherwise. The chair and participants noted recent pump prices as context, but did not make an immediate budget amendment during the meeting.
