During the recent Marion County Board of County Commissioners workshop, the Utilities Department presented its budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year. Director Tony Cunningham, alongside Deputy Director Josh Kramer and Finance Manager John Kornilson, outlined a budget designed to fulfill the county's mission of providing safe and reliable water and wastewater services.

Cunningham emphasized the importance of maintaining infrastructure to support community growth, highlighting the need for new plants and upgrades to existing facilities over the next five to ten years. This proactive approach aims to ensure that the utility can meet the demands of a growing population while adhering to regulatory requirements.

A key focus of the budget is operational and revenue stability. The department reported strong financial health, indicating that current revenues are sufficient to cover operational expenses without necessitating rate increases for the coming year. This stability is bolstered by regular rate sufficiency analyses, which confirm that the utility's financial model remains sound.

However, the budget also reflects challenges faced by the utility sector, particularly rising costs for materials, labor, and services. Cunningham noted that since the COVID-19 pandemic, bids for projects have consistently exceeded expectations, placing additional pressure on the budget.

The proposed budget underscores the utility's commitment to not only maintaining existing infrastructure but also investing in new capacity to accommodate future growth. As the county continues to expand, the Utilities Department aims to ensure that its services remain efficient and effective, ultimately benefiting the community at large. The workshop provided a platform for discussion, allowing commissioners to ask questions and seek clarification on the budget's components and implications for Marion County residents.