Staff Report
Churchill County Commissioners made several key adjustments during a recent budget hearing, working to balance the 2025–26 tentative budget while weighing personnel requests, public safety needs, and long-term financial stability.
Comptroller Sherry Wideman presented the revised budget, which included a 2% cost-of-living raise for county employees, a proposed health insurance stipend for elected officials and department heads, and adjustments to staffing and capital requests.
After discussion, commissioners voted to remove the insurance stipend, freeing up $331,000. “We have departments that need personnel and capital outlay to maintain quality services,” said Board Chairman Myles Getto. “It makes more sense to apply those funds where they'll have the greatest impact.”
The board approved several personnel reclassifications:
Two captains in the Sheriff’s Office, to ensure leadership roles remain competitive. Sheriff Richard Hickox noted promotions could result in pay cuts without the change.
The Clerk-Treasurer’s Election Technician position, to meet growing voter needs.
A Recorder’s Office role, supporting ongoing digitization of county records.
A request for three new patrol vehicles was postponed. “Equipment replacement is important, but given our current fiscal situation, we need to hold off and reassess,” said Commissioner Matt Hyde.
Commissioner Eric Blakey pointed to the need for caution amid economic uncertainty. “Sales tax revenues fluctuate. It's better to be prepared for the unexpected,” he said.
One area receiving added funding was Justice Court security. An extra $5,000 was approved to extend coverage to five days a week.
Wideman said the tentative budget will be submitted to the Nevada Department of Taxation by April 15, with final approval scheduled for May 21. Outcomes from union talks and proposals for juvenile and law enforcement healthcare may influence the final numbers.
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