Mesa County commissioners approved a $261.1 million budget for 2024 they say prioritizes financial sustainability while also investing in infrastructure and staff.

“Mesa County’s 2024 budget is rooted in what we believe the taxpayers would prioritize,” said Janet Rowland, chairwoman of the board of county commissioners. “It’s a responsible approach that balances investment in better infrastructure and the delivery of high-quality services to our community.”

“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,” Rowland added.

The 2024 budget reflects an increase of $18.5 million, or 7.6 percent, over the 2023 adopted budget.

The budget includes $22.5 million in available general fund reserves at the end of the 2024 fiscal year, equivalent to more than two months of expenses.

The budget also includes $4.4 million to begin renovating the Mesa County Justice Center.

The county also expects to complete the Clifton Community Campus, which will include facilities for early childhood education and workforce training and a community center. The Clifton branch of the Mesa County Library already has opened on the campus. Construction also continues on a De Beque Community Hall.

The 2024 county budget allocates a $3.2 million increase in total compensation to county staff to attract and retain top talent with only minimal changes in employee health insurance premiums. A total of 14 new full-time positions are planned for various departments.

Another $3.6 million is earmarked in the budget for new finance software to streamline services to departments and the public.