Red Willow County Commissioners Discuss Budget, Inheritance Tax, and Health Department Funding

August 26, 2025

McCOOK, Neb. — The Red Willow County Board of Commissioners met Monday, August 25, 2025, tackling a wide-ranging agenda that included budget workshops, department inventories, and consent agenda approvals.

During the citizens’ comments portion, community member Dr. Jason Hilker raised questions about a recent news report on a $600,000 interfund transfer from the inheritance tax fund to balance the county’s budget. Commissioners clarified that while the inheritance fund—currently holding about $4.6 million—has long been used as a reserve to help balance budgets, the county has never actually withdrawn money from it. Commissioner Randy Dean explained, “It makes no sense to put a tax on the taxpayers for something that might happen. This enables us to have a reserve without overtaxing.” Chairman Ted Gans added that if the state ever eliminates inheritance tax revenue without a replacement, the county would be forced to either raise property taxes or make cuts.

Hilker also asked about homelessness concerns at Norris Park and the county’s involvement with recent announcements surrounding the Work Ethic Camp and airport costs. Commissioners said those issues largely fall under the jurisdiction of the McCook Police Department and the City of McCook, though they emphasized their own limited prior involvement in state-level decisions.

Budget discussions then turned to the Health Department. Health Director Brandy Bird outlined rising costs for vaccines and lab services, while noting the department also generates revenue through clinics, school partnerships, and grants.

The Fair Board was also present, with Manager Jiles Bowman remarking, “Can I make it easy on you? This is fine,” in reference to the proposed budget. Commissioner Dean responded bluntly, “No s#!@‘“ drawing laughter in the room.

The board moved through its consent agenda, approving ten items: accounts payable and payroll claims totaling over $617,000, departmental inventories, levy-setting resolutions, reappointments to the Veterans’ Service Board, and agreements covering floodplain administration, law enforcement with the Village of Bartley, and a tractor lease for Kiplinger Arena. The board also adopted the 2025 Local Emergency Operating Plan.

Commissioners will continue budget work in upcoming meetings, with public hearings scheduled before the September deadline.