County budget preparations has begun

The process to begin assembling St. Joseph County’s 2019 fiscal-year budget is underway.

County administrator Teresa Doehring said department managers have provided her and finance director Ryan Post their five-year, capital-request wish lists, as a starting point.

The county’s next fiscal year begins Jan. 1.

In addition, Doehring at last week’s executive committee meeting, said the process of negotiations regarding 10 union contracts that expire at the end of the year also has started.

She expects to have proposals to commissioners on or before their first meeting in September. Doehring said key points will center on wage increases, retirement plans and insurance.

Doehring said she wants to ensure the county is fiscally responsible yet fair to its employees.