Forsyth County Sheriff’s Call for Enhanced Funding Amid Budget Concerns
In a recent address, Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough highlighted the pressing need for increased financial support for his department. This announcement follows revelations from a county commission meeting regarding the department’s projected budget overrun exceeding one million dollars.
The financial strain on the sheriff’s office is primarily due to significant expenses related to off-site medical services for inmates, which account for over $600,000, as well as overtime costs exceeding $300,000. Sheriff Kimbrough explained that these costs are exacerbated by a rising inmate population and longer detention periods.
“The message is simple: you either pay on the front end or you pay on the back end. When you pay on the back end, the price is more,” Sheriff Kimbrough stated, underscoring the long-term financial implications of delayed funding.
Collaborative efforts among law enforcement have led to a reduction in crime rates, according to officials present at the press conference. However, these achievements come with increased financial demands.
Residents of Forsyth County will have the opportunity to discuss the budget during an upcoming public hearing on May 18, allowing the community to engage directly with fiscal planning decisions.
