Mesa County Adopts 2024 Budget: A Strategic Approach to Enhance Community Services and Economic Stability

Today, Dec. 12, 2023, the Board of Mesa County Commissioners approved a $261.1 million 2024 budget that prioritizes financial sustainability while investing in infrastructure and top-talent employees to optimize the core services that strengthen the quality of life in Mesa County.

The total county budget is $261.1 million, an increase of $18.5 million (7.6%) from the 2023 adopted budget. The net county budget, which deducts interfund transfers and charges, totals $234.2 million.

"Mesa County's 2024 budget is rooted in what we believe the taxpayers would prioritize. It’s a responsible approach that balances investment in better infrastructure and the delivery of high-quality services to our community," said Janet Rowland, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. "We continue to be dedicated to fostering collaborative partnerships and focusing on projects that will make a real difference in the future of our community."

The County updated its Strategic Plan last year, and it serves as a compass for shaping the 2024 budget, steering resources toward pivotal priorities, and ensuring a cohesive alignment of initiatives across all departments. Presented below are the most significant strategic investments the County plans to make in 2024.

Build the Best Team

$3.2 million increase in total compensation to attract and retain top talent
Minimal change in employee health insurance premiums

Build a Culture of Excellence

$3.6 million for new finance software to streamline services to departments and the public

Fourteen new full-time positions (FTE) comprised of:
- To bolster the team, the Community Impact Team will gain two new sheriff's officers dedicated to Behavioral Health.
- Two additional roles in the District Attorney's (DA) office, with one focusing on victim restitution and the other on trial deputy responsibilities.
- Provision for one new position in Noxious Weed and Pest Management to assist with the Japanese beetle project.
- Public Health has two new positions slated — one for the clinic and another for environmental health.
- The Department of Human Services (DHS) will gain one new position dedicated to Child Welfare parenting time, based on new state requirements.
- Six new positions are earmarked for the Facilities Department and Parks, Landscapes and Open Spaces Department to support completing new buildings and campuses.

Build Community, Together

Completion of the multi-use Clifton Community Campus, which will include facilities for early childhood education and workforce training, a community center, and the new Clifton branch of the Mesa County Library
The new Behavioral Health Department is currently serving 149 clients, is slated to continue growth, and will have a capacity to serve up to 300 clients in 2024.
Continued construction of the De Beque Community Hall.
Continued funding for the Japanese beetle eradication program.
Funding to support broadband efforts, including Region 10 partnership and enhancing the ability of private providers to serve our communities.