5.14.26 Budget Work Session #12

The MultCoBoard held Budget Work Session #12 on May 15, 2026, focusing extensively on capital budget planning and project updates across multiple county departments. The Department of County Assets presented on capital projects, highlighting a constrained budget year with a 32% reduction in capital funds compared to the previous year, emphasizing priorities such as preventive maintenance, facility lifecycle funding, and modernization. Key projects discussed included the Walnut Park redevelopment, vector control relocation, sobering crisis intervention center, and a new animal services facility design phase. The board also reviewed IT capital projects totaling $11.6 million for FY2027, with no new general funds allocated, relying mostly on one-time-only funds and grants. The Transportation Division outlined a $173.7 million budget, with $42.7 million dedicated to capital projects including bridge and road improvements, ADA ramp upgrades, and the Earthquake Ready Burnside Bridge project. Several motions and budget notes were proposed, including a focus on ADA compliance funding and exploring Medicaid match opportunities for behavioral health services. Discussions also addressed funding challenges, project prioritization, and the need for transparent communication with commissioners and the community regarding project status and budget reallocations.