Thomas County Commissioners Review 2027 Budget Requests, Approve Security System Upgrade

The Thomas County Commissioners spent much of their June 8 meeting continuing to review 2027 budget requests from county departments and community organizations while also approving a nearly $100,000 upgrade to the security camera system at the Thomas County Judicial Center.

The meeting opened with the sales tax revenue reports in which Thomas County received $120,955.75 in half-cent sales tax revenue and $60,477.87 from the quarter-cent sales tax. Commissioners also approved $149,391.80 in Courthouse General accounts payable.

The first scheduled budget presentation came from Options Domestic and Sexual Violence Services, which paperwork noted a request of $3,000 contribution from Thomas County for 2027. However, representatives were unable to attend the meeting, and the request was postponed until the next commission meeting.

Commissioners then heard from the Thomas County Conservation District, which requested funding of $35,000 for 2027. Representatives highlighted more than $412,000 brought into Thomas County through conservation programs and cost-share initiatives designed to assist landowners with soil and water conservation projects. Programs included assistance for terraces, grass waterways, livestock water systems, shelterbelts, septic system improvements, and other conservation efforts. Representatives also discussed educational outreach efforts, including the annual Kids Conservation Roundup that served approximately 240 students from 15 schools this spring.

Before continuing with budget discussions, Chairman Mike Baughn moved an executive session concerning security equipment and measures involving IT Director David Becker and Undersheriff Tom Nichols. No binding action resulted from the session.

Economic Development Alliance Executive Director Vernon Hurd presented the organization's 2027 budget request, seeking $85,013 from the county, an increase of approximately 4% or $3,269 from the current year. Hurd answered questions from commissioners regarding housing development efforts in smaller communities such as Brewster, Gem, Levant, and Rexford. He explained that while those communities face challenges in attracting new housing, the Alliance continues working with individuals interested in home construction and development opportunities, but challenges continue to stall development.

Commissioners also discussed participation in the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge, housing incentives, workforce recruitment, and economic development tools such as Community Improvement Districts and the Neighborhood Revitalization Program.

Commissioner Brad Flipse requested an update on approximately $200,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding that is scheduled to expire at the end of this year. Hurd explained the remaining funds will be reallocated through the Colby Convention and Visitors Bureau for tourism and workforce attraction efforts. Flipse expressed support for the Alliance's work, and commissioners indicated they would consider the request during budget deliberations.

Road and Bridge Director Clair Schrock returned with revised contract documents for the county's Bettis Asphalt project. The contract was approved in a prior meeting, but changes included bonding requirements that had previously raised concerns during audits. Commissioners reapproved the updated agreement, which also specifies that no construction work will occur between June 15 and July 8 to avoid conflicts with harvest activities.

One of the largest discussions of the day centered on a proposal from Divar and CML Security to replace aging and failing security camera equipment at the Thomas County Judicial Center. Becker and CML representatives explained that portions of the existing system, installed around 2021, have begun to fail requiring additional hardware.

The proposed upgrade carries a price tag of $98,587 and includes new equipment and a planned five-year service agreement. Commissioners expressed frustration that maintenance agreements had not been established with the original installation, leading to the current situation.

Commissioner Flipse voiced concerns about approving such a large expenditure without a written service agreement in place. Commissioner Luedke also questioned using wind farm revenue funds for the purchase, citing potential future needs at the landfill. Eventually, commissioners agreed the system replacement was necessary and approved the expenditure. A separate motion authorized payment from the Commissioners Equipment Reserve Fund.

Following a brief recess, commissioners revisited discussion of a proposed tow vehicle ordinance. Representatives from S&M Towing attended the meeting, and County Attorney Chris Rohr, City Manager Ron Alexander, and commissioners discussed concerns regarding tow truck rotation procedures and language within a proposed resolution. After hearing multiple perspectives, commissioners determined that no ordinance was necessary and took no action on the matter.

Two executive sessions related to landfill staffing followed. Both sessions lasted 20 minutes and concluded with no binding action taken.

County Clerk Keesa Mariman informed commissioners that health insurance costs are expected to increase significantly in 2027. Preliminary information from IMA indicates Blue Cross Blue Shield rates could rise by at least 10% for employees and 16% overall. Officials noted the challenge of preparing county budgets before final insurance rates are released later in the year.

The remainder of the meeting focused on 2027 departmental budget hearings.

Commissioners granted preliminary approval for the 15th Judicial District budget, estimated at $114,000, with Thomas County's share expected to be approximately $35,000. The remaining amount will be funded by the counties in the district but paid through Thomas County. Discussion included separating district court and county court expenditures to improve budget transparency.

IT Director David Becker presented a budget request of approximately $304,000, representing less than a 1% increase. Plans include upgrading internet speeds at several county facilities and reviewing future technology service contracts.

Becker who serves in dual roles presented the Emergency Management budget request as director with a total of $132,610, a 19.36% increase from the previous year. Much of the increase was tied to equipment and operational expenses, though planned tornado siren projects are now expected to be delayed until 2028 while additional grant opportunities are pursued.

County Attorney Chris Rohr presented a budget with a 2.21% increase, primarily associated with special prosecution expenses.

Road and Bridge discussions were extensive, including concerns over salary allocations, rising tire costs, asphalt prices, and aggregate materials. Commissioners granted preliminary approval of $3,385,000.

Schrock also presented the Noxious Weed budget, which includes anticipated staffing changes as both he and another employee consider retirement within the next two years. Commissioners discussed succession planning, software changes, and future personnel needs before granting preliminary approval.

With budget hearings complete and no further business before the board, commissioners adjourned the meeting just before 1pm.

by Derek White