Worcester County Sheriff requests $3.4M budget increase for salary and vehicle needs

The Worcester County Budget Workshop held on April 8, 2025, focused on the fiscal year 2026 budget for the school system and the sheriff's department, highlighting significant financial adjustments and staffing needs.

The meeting commenced with discussions surrounding the school system's budget, emphasizing the detrimental effects of previous cuts to staffing, programs, and instructional materials. A thorough analysis revealed that increased spending in these areas is necessary to support the ongoing success of the school system. Adjustments were made across various budgetary line items to provide a clearer picture of projected spending needs.

A notable request included a one-time expense of $42,098 for the implementation of a new program. The budget for federal grants in FY 2026 is projected at $7,227,838, reflecting a decrease of $3,580,000 from FY 2025, primarily due to the expiration of ESSER and LEADS funding. Conversely, state grants are expected to increase by $1,890,000 to a total of $13,000,009.86, while local grants will rise to $200,000 from $150,000.

The discussion also covered staffing levels, with a total of 1,288.33 Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) proposed for the upcoming year. This includes new positions such as a registrar and six certificated teachers. The meeting revealed that the school system had previously cut six teaching positions, a tech coach, and five custodians due to budget constraints, but these positions are now being reconsidered as needs evolve.

The sheriff's department presented a budget request for FY 2026, seeking an increase of $3,400,000, or 20%, to address personnel needs, vehicle replacements, and capital equipment. The sheriff emphasized the importance of competitive salaries to attract and retain qualified law enforcement personnel, noting that the department's current salary structure ranks near the bottom compared to regional standards. The request aims to enhance public safety and minimize turnover, which incurs significant costs.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued collaboration among departments to ensure effective use of taxpayer funds while addressing the pressing needs of both the school system and law enforcement. The discussions underscored the challenges of balancing budgetary constraints with the necessity for adequate staffing and resources to maintain quality services in Worcester County.