Sheriff Tim Thompson reaffirmed his commitment to public safety and fiscal responsibility by unveiling key details of the proposed 2025 budget for the Seneca County Sheriff’s Office. The announcement emphasizes the balance between maintaining exemplary public safety services and protecting the taxpayer dollar.

Sheriff Thompson highlighted the challenges of rising costs, particularly for body cameras and associated data storage, which have expanded with the program. “One of the most significant costs has been attributed to body cameras and related expenses,” Thompson said, noting the critical role they play in accountability and safety. Routine equipment replacement, affected by inflation, also contributes to increased expenses.

A significant development in the proposed budget is funding for new corrections and law enforcement emergency response teams. These initiatives aim to enhance the safety of the public, incarcerated individuals and law enforcement personnel. In addition, plans to fill the vacancies will allow for the reopening of a closed housing unit at the county correctional facility, potentially generating revenue by housing federal inmates.

“By reopening this facility, we gain the ability to house out-of-state inmates — a revenue generator for the county,” Thompson explained.

In an effort to alleviate financial pressures on the county, the Office of Sheriff has worked with the Seneca County Budget Task Force to make concessions in the 2025 budget. These cuts, Sheriff Thompson assures, will not compromise public safety or operational efficiency.

Sheriff Thompson expressed his gratitude to the Budget Task Force and the Board of Supervisors for their collaboration and difficult decision-making. “I credit the members of the Sheriff’s Office for their hard work in prioritizing our needs while also recognizing the importance of protecting the taxpayer dollar,” he said.

As economic pressures continue, Thompson emphasized the importance of strategic planning and cooperation to meet public safety demands while meeting financial constraints.

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