Board and residents briefed on County finances and department workplans

Courtesy of Marin County

As the County of Marin prepares to finalize budget plans for the two-year budget cycle, the Marin County Board of Supervisors heard public feedback and offered its own guidance during informational budget planning sessions that concluded March 23.

The Supervisors heard about department workplans, emerging issues, and potential one-time budget allocations from the federal relief funds. Among the emerging issues, progress on racial equity, behavioral health and homelessness were among the topics reported to the Board. Long-term capital planning was also a central theme, with presentations from the Marin County Free Library and the Department of Public Works that highlighted anticipated repairs and improvements over the next few years.

One-time funds, including federal relief funds under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), will be available to address many of the County’s top priorities. Staff outlined initial recommendations, which included homelessness services, a contribution to the revitalization of Golden Gate Village community in Marin City, a County service hub in southern Marin, countywide climate change and sea level rise projects, tourist infrastructure investments in West Marin, and support for expanded broadband access in underserved areas.

The County is expecting upward revisions to the ongoing fiscal outlook stemming from increased local property and sales taxes. Last year’s investment returns make the County fully funded for pension liabilities, which will also reduce the County’s required annual contributions. Staff will provide the Board with updated projections in April.

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In her closing remarks, Board President Katie Rice noted that the County’s budget should include funding to prevent homelessness, invest in infrastructure, and advance racial equity initiatives. She also concurred with her colleagues that the County needed to address workforce recruitment and retention issues to better provide critical community services.

June 2021, the Board adopted a $683 million budget for 2021-22 just as the economy was beginning to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The final fiscal year 2022-2024 Proposed Budget will be brought before the Board in June.

The County’s budget overview webpage allows residents to view interactive charts and graphs through the budget dashboard.