Where do we cut another $228,000? That was the question Fremont County Commissioners had to answer today, June 30th, during their regular meeting. The Fiscal Year 20-21 Fremont County budget has been under examination for months now, and almost weekly more cuts had to be made.
“We know this is probably going to be one of the most trying times we’ve been through,” Chairman Travis Becker said during Monday night’s public hearing. “This board is going to be proactive to be ahead of anything that might come at us.”
In order to balance the budget today, Vice-Chairman Larry Allen posed the idea of taking $114,000 out of the cash reserve and $114,000 out of the capital revolving fund to make up the deficit of $228,000. After some discussion and concern, it was approved. Part of the approval included a commitment, brought to the table by Becker, that if a county asset sold, the money would go into the cash reserve.
While the amended budget was approved today, it will continue to be under scrutiny throughout the year. It is possible departments could see budget updates later in the year. “It’s done, but it’s not done,” Fremont County Clerk and Budget Officer Julie Freese said.
The official budget numbers will be available next week. County 10 will share them when released.