A coalition of elected officials in Plumas County has raised serious concerns about the 2024-2025 recommended budget in an open letter addressed to the Board of Supervisors and residents. The officials criticize the budget for proposing increased expenditures without sustainable revenue sources and relying on one-time fixes. Those signed include Sheriff Todd Johns, Assessor Cindie Froggatt, Auditor Martee Graham, Treasurer-Tax Collector Julie White, Supervisor-Elect Mimi Hall, and DA David Hollister.
The letter highlights claims of factual errors in the budget documents, including misleading claims about the novelty of the budget process and the timing of budget adoption. Contrary to current statements, the county has historically adopted budgets by June 30 and finalized them by October 2. CAO Debra Lucero called the shift to a new budget adoption timeline during the Board of Supervisors Public Hearing on the proposed budget “a historic trend that needs to be addressed by the leadership team of the county.”
Furthermore, the officials warn that the budget’s reliance on depleting the General Fund balance by over $10 million is fiscally irresponsible and poses significant financial risks. District Attorney David Hollister, during the public hearing, asked, “How the heck are we going to pay for next year’s deficit? If we’ve gone from an 8 million deficit in the general fund to 10 million, is next year going to be 12 million?”
CAO Lucero clarified that last year’s budget did not include county department raises, merits, and longevity pay, noting that there are obligations that must be paid. However, Hollister argued that there’s a spending problem with money that the county does not have. If we are going to add things, we have to cut other things.” The letter addresses such cuts, noting that the budget proposes unsustainable expenditures without long-term funding, risking layoffs and service cuts.
The coalition emphasizes the need for a sustainable long-term financing strategy, accountability, and a collaborative approach to ensure the county’s financial stability and service continuity. The letter calls for the Board to increase their understanding of budget processes, seek unbiased information, and lead with transparency to reflect community priorities.
Supervisor Tom McGowan stated, “In order to be competitive moving forward, we have to make some pretty draconian, if you will, or difficult decisions, and everybody’s input is required in order to come up with something that works for everybody in the best interest of the county.”
Another look at the budget with recommended modifications and recommendations this coming Tuesday, June 25, in the board’s chambers during the board’s regularly scheduled meeting in the Quincy Courthouse beginning at 10 am.
