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Commissioners weigh budget gap after Bethel ends enhanced patrol contract
Summary
Oxford County officials discussed a loss of revenue after the Town of Bethel terminated a contract that had funded four full-time deputies and explored short-term funding options, including casino funds and partial absorption by the county treasury.
Oxford County Commissioners at their July 9 workshop reviewed budget projections after Finance Director Linsday Kay told the board the termination of Bethel's enhanced patrol contract eliminated revenue that had covered four full-time deputy positions.
Commissioner Lisa Keim said expanding deputy headcount without dedicated funding would force county taxpayers to cover an unplanned ongoing expense and undercut the prior "but for" premise of Bethel's contract. Treasurer Calhoun suggested the county could attempt to absorb funding for at least two of the positions. Sheriff Wainwright said his office anticipates several upcoming long-term leaves and argued additional deputies would be needed for safety and continuity; he also proposed using casino funds temporarily to cover positions until a new budget is passed.
The board did not take final action but agreed the topic requires more consideration and to return to it at the next meeting. The commissioners determined an executive session was not necessary for this discussion.
