Wayne County Approves $2.23 Billion Budget for 2025
In a significant move that highlights the county’s fiscal health, Wayne County has officially approved a budget of $2.23 billion for its upcoming fiscal year, which kicks off on Tuesday. This marks the tenth consecutive year the county has managed to deliver a balanced budget, a feat that reflects a turnaround in its financial situation.
Investments in Employees and Community
One of the key features of this newly approved budget includes a generous $25 million allocated for raises for rank-and-file county employees. This increase is designed to make Wayne County more competitive in attracting and retaining talent compared to both the city of Detroit and other neighboring counties.
Additionally, the budget allows for $3 million to be set aside for small businesses and nonprofits in each of the county’s 15 districts, promoting local economies and supporting community initiatives. There’s also $7 million earmarked for a township road paving program, which aims to improve the infrastructure in various communities across the county.
Focus on Criminal Justice Improvements
The new budget places a strong emphasis on the county’s recently opened criminal justice complex. Included in the budget is an additional $8.4 million to cover extra staffing shifts and resources necessary to keep the facility running smoothly. This funding comes from the leftover funds from the past fiscal year, illustrating a wise use of county resources.
County Executive Warren Evans noted the importance of maintaining these facilities, stating, “We want to avoid overwhelming the adult and juvenile detention capacities.” The budget’s focus on maintenance also signifies a proactive approach to county operations, ensuring that these crucial services are adequately supported.
Community Support through Added Staff
Staffing has been a critical issue for the sheriff’s office in recent years. The new budget seeks to address these concerns with $500,000 allocated for hiring additional sheriff’s deputies. This is a much-needed boost, especially considering that there were 195 vacancies in corporal positions as of January 2024, out of a budgeted total of 453.
Wayne County Commissioner Jonathan Kinloch, chair of the Ways and Means Committee, remarked on the positive growth in the county’s financial standing, saying, “Ten consecutive years of general fund budget surpluses is not something we should take lightly.” It’s a sentiment that reflects the county’s recovery from a precarious financial past where it was heavily underfunded in essential areas like healthcare and pensions.
Looking Forward
With over $388 million in the general fund at the beginning of this fiscal year, the county is in a far better position than it was a decade ago when its financial state was dire, prompting a consent agreement with the state. Prior to this turnaround, the county was grappling with a pension fund that was underfunded by $910 million and healthcare liabilities that exceeded $1.3 billion.
As the new fiscal year begins, the leadership of Wayne County is optimistic about ongoing improvements and further investments in its community and workforce. The determined effort by county officials to maintain good fiscal practices, along with collaborative planning and execution, have led to this remarkable achievement that aims to benefit residents—both in their daily lives and in their broader community experiences.
In conclusion, as Wayne County steps into the new fiscal year with a balanced budget, it’s clear that the commitment to fiscal responsibility and community investment continues to pave the way for a brighter future for its residents.
