Understanding Mesa County's proposed 2027 budget before adoption
Mesa County’s proposed 2027 budget includes $283.9 million in spending for roads, public safety, facilities and other county services, but where does that money come from, and why does the county plan to use reserves?
With the Board of County Commissioners scheduled to consider the final budget Nov. 17, residents have an opportunity to review the proposal and provide feedback.
Where does the money come from?
County funding comes from property taxes, sales taxes, fees, grants and other state and federal sources.
Some funding can only be used for specific programs or projects, while other funds support a broader range of county services.
The proposed budget includes $252 million in revenue and $283.9 million in expenditures, with a planned use of $31.9 million from existing fund balances.
Why is the county using reserves?
Much of the planned use of reserves supports capital projects, including $19 million carried forward from projects approved in 2026 that were not yet under contract. These projects may use money collected in previous years, grants or other dedicated funding.
However, the county also faces an ongoing challenge. Expenses continue to exceed revenue in the general fund, which supports 22 departments and accounts for about 35% of the budget.
Reserves can temporarily cover costs, but they cannot permanently fund ongoing expenses that exceed revenue.
What is changing in 2027?
To address financial pressures, the proposal reduces budgeted spending on contract and staffing while continuing planned investments in roads and other core services.
Budgeted staffing would decrease by 61 positions, or about 5%. This does not mean 61 layoffs. The reduction includes vacant and previously frozen positions, organizational changes and some filled positions affected by funding losses or budget reductions.
Rising costs for insurance, software, equipment and maintenance also remain budget pressures.
What happens next?
The proposed budget may change as updated financial information becomes available.
Commissioners are scheduled to consider the final 2027 budget for adoption Nov.17.
Residents can review the proposed budget and submit comments to mcadmin@mesacounty.us.
Comments may also be shared during the unscheduled business portion of a regular commissioners' public hearing. Hearings begin at 9 a.m. Tuesdays at 544 Rood Ave. in Grand Junction.
The county budget affects services residents depend on every day. Understanding the proposal gives residents an opportunity to follow how public money is spent before the final budget is adopted.
