On Tuesday, San Bernardino County leaders held a budget workshop at the Board of Supervisors meeting as the second formal step in the fiscal year (FY) 2025–26 budget development process. The presentation, delivered by county Chief Executive Officer Luther Snoke and Chief Financial Officer Matthew Erickson, focused on economic risks, long-term fiscal strategy, five-year financial forecasts, and proposed general fund investments.
Amid market volatility, uncertainty surrounding future state and federal funding, and the risk of natural disasters, Snoke emphasized a measured, stability-first approach to budget planning that prioritizes funding essential services while maintaining flexibility to respond to changing conditions.
“We’re focused on striking the right balance – using funding wisely while still investing in areas where growth makes sense,” said Snoke. “Our goal is to maintain, and ideally strengthen, essential services like public safety, human services, and parks and recreation, without stretching resources that could be vital if unexpected challenges arise.”
To prepare for future challenges, the county is looking to proactively reserve an additional $74 million for economic uncertainty, targeting flexible spending areas such as capital improvement projects that can be paused if revenues decline or greater needs arise.
The five-year forecast projects a conservative 3% annual growth in property tax revenue – below the 10-year average of 6.7% – along with flat sales tax revenues, prompting restraint in new program development.
The forecast includes strategic investments, including $208 million to support employee agreements through 2030, up to $55.7 million for human services such as foster care and in-home supportive services, and $8.7 million reserved for potential jail impacts related to Proposition 36.
“There are many uncertainties right now, but we’ve positioned ourselves to be financially strong as an organization,” said Erickson. “That strength comes not just from our current fiscal strategy, but from years of careful planning and guidance from the Board of Supervisors.”
An additional $2.1 million will bolster the community concerns reserve to address issues such as illegal cannabis grows, snow play violations and illegal dumping.
For FY 2025–26, the county is proposing $205.2 million in general fund investments, including $15.6 million in ongoing funding for new departmental initiatives and one-time allocations for infrastructure, land use services and facility needs.
“From an infrastructure standpoint, we’re looking to allocate additional funding for Public Works[JA1] , particularly to provide matching funds for grants tied to road and other key projects,” said Erickson. “We’re also focusing on supporting development assistance through Land Use Services and various community programs.”
To safeguard long-term financial stability, the county is also recommending a $25 million contribution to its retirement reserve. The move is intended to help offset potential shortfalls if pension fund returns fall below the expected 7.25% rate, a growing concern given current market volatility.
“This budget reflects our commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility and long-term planning,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman and Third District Supervisor Dawn Rowe. “By staying focused on our priorities and listening to the needs of our communities, we’re ensuring that vital programs and services remain strong and sustainable for years to come.”
In the next phase of [JA2] the budget process, the recommended budget book for FY 2025–26 will be delivered to the Board of Supervisors and made available to the public on May 20. Community members can review the recommended budget and stay informed by visiting main.sbcounty.gov/about-cao/finance.
Additional County Update News – May 8, 2025
- Board actions, May 6
- Wildfire preparedness starts here
- County delivers bed bug treatment units to prevent spread in local shelters
- Recent rain and rising temperatures increase mosquito risk
- ARMC held its 13th Annual EMS and Tactical Medicine Expo
- Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector honored with triple awards for excellence in financial reporting
- Public Defender’s Mobile Defense Program heads to Joshua Tree on May 14
- San Bernardino County destinations: Crestline
- Call for submissions: Share your favorite San Bernardino County destinations
- San Bernardino County history: Norton Air Force Base
- Things to do in San Bernardino County
- Pet of the Week