County budget to go on display

Christopher Forbes, left, was introduced to the Livingston County Board at its October meeting on Thursday. With Forbes are Sheriff Ryan Bohm and former jailer Lisa Draper. Photo by Erich Murphy.

Among the items the Livingston County Board approved at its monthly meeting on Thursday was the budget for 2027.

A quick look at the nearly 400-page budget, that includes levies and capital expenses, indicates the county will be spending more money than it takes in. As listed in the budget document on page 55, the county’s total revenues are expected to be $49,678,090 while the total expenditures are listed at $57,098,775. This leaves a deficit of $7.4 million.

The fiscal year runs from Dec. 1, 2026, to Nov. 30, 2027. The budget will be on public display.

According to the Highway Committee’s report, a lot of bridge work will be taking place. County Engineer Clay Metcalf told the board that there will be bridge work taking place over the next couple years. Two bridges in Nebraska Township, as well as bridges Nevada, Belle Prairie, Charlotte, Odell and Owego townships are slated for replacement. Money for these projects are listed as coming from local and, in some cases, wind farm funds.

The big project discussed was the Historic Courthouse Roof Project change order.

Paul Scharnett of HEWN Architects told the board that more deterioration had taken place than expected, primarily at the corners.

“We opened up a little can or worms,” Scharnett said before explaining what was seen.

He indicated that he has seen worse but that this is still “a tall task.” He pointed out that outriggers were wanting to pull away from the building while rafters are holding it in place. The plan is to put new steel outriggers on the parapet walls, among other repairs.

The cost is expected to increase to the $600,000 range. A completion date for the project is now April 2027. This addition was approved by a 15-1 vote with Dan Myers voting against. Scharnett said the project is about 75-percent complete. A look at the courthouse shows that most of the scaffolding has been taken down.

In other action, board approved the sale of county property, including vehicles, and a FY2026 budget transfer.

Executive Director Alina Hartley explained the Livingston County Rural Transportation Plan and the authorizing of a 2026 application for statewide transit capital assistance. These passed by a 15-1 vote with Myers dissenting each time.

Prior to action being taken, the board was introduced to Christopher Forbes, who is taking over the reins of the Livingston County Jail. He is replacing Lisa Draper.

Mick Hogan was been appointed to the Odell Fire Protection District.

The board also had a moment of silence for former Sheriff Tony Childress, who passed away on Oct. 13. Childress had served the county for more than 30 years, including as sheriff from 2014-2022.