County budgets to include $24.85 million for Medical Examiner operations next year; ARPA and general fund transfers noted

County staff told Brazos County Commissioners on Feb. 25 that the next fiscal year’s budget for the Medical Examiner’s Office will be $24,849,578 (approx.). Staff said part of that amount — about $9.4 million — is supported by remaining ARPA grant funds, and that the court previously authorized a transfer from the general fund to cover the remainder under existing contracts.

A presenter emphasized that the county is “under contract” and must budget the amounts as commitments are already in place. Staff declined to reverse the prior transfer or unilaterally reduce the contract obligations, noting that physical work (including concrete) and procurement have already taken place.

No further action or vote was taken; the figure will be included in the proposed budget as a committed amount tied to contract obligations and grant funding.