In a time when governmental bodies across the state are in a struggle to meet budget needs departments are being asked to reduce costs, Madison County Sheriff John Mehr has submitted a budget with a 30% ($2.8 million) increase over last year’s spending.

The Madison County commission is holding department budget hearings to prepare for the 2020/2021 county budget.

Sheriff Mehr contends that his department was inadequately funded for years under the previous administration.

Mehr says the full budget is necessary to protect the citizens of Madison County and the employees of
the Madison County sheriffs department.

According to County finance director, Karen Bell, other departments have gone along with the budget committee’s request of making three percent reductions in last year’s spending.

The sheriff says his budget request was cut by three percent.

The sheriff’s office is currently engaged in a lawsuit with the county over 2019/2020 budget
disputes.