Board adopts preliminary budget; includes $200,000 placeholder for sheriff radio upgrade and $2,400 to Downeyville hall

The Sierra County Board of Supervisors adopted preliminary county and service-area budgets for fiscal 2025–26, which include a $200,000 allocation identified for a sheriff radio-system replacement and a $2,400 transfer to the Downeyville Community Hall’s account.

Board members and the sheriff described repeated radio-system failures and safety concerns during recent operations and training. “Unfortunately, the equipment's just reached the end of life,” the sheriff said, noting the county is relying on temporary repairs as staff prepare for summer fire season.

County staff explained the $200,000 entry is a placeholder in the preliminary budget and will require additional planning and likely further budget action before the project is implemented. Supervisors also approved a small, immediate transfer of $2,400 to the Downeyville hall account (see separate item) so the auxiliary can continue operations while staff and a proposed committee develop a longer-term plan.

During the budget discussion supervisors acknowledged tight fund balances in several service areas and asked staff to verify the proposed sources for the sheriff radio allocation and other line items. The board directed staff to follow up on the radio project timeline, funding sources and procurement approach, and to return with more precise cost estimates and a recommended implementation schedule before authorizing construction or purchase orders.