Miami County sheriff seeks $730K more in budget, wants say in any cuts

TROY - Miami County Sheriff Dave Duchak discussed the sheriff office’s proposed 2018 budget with the county commission, asking that he be involved in any cuts that need to be made.

Duchak, who is in his first year as the elected sheriff, said last week the budget includes a $730,000 increase over 2017. He explained that the proposed additions include money for cost of living and step raises, a new fiscal officer position, a new deputy to help fill school resource officer demands and added costs incurred with opening a third 60-prisoner pod at the county Incarceration Facility.

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Duchak, who was chief deputy for former Sheriff Charles Cox the past few years, told commissioners Jack Evans and Greg Simmons he understands the county budget can be tight and less spending preferred.

To avoid past problems, including “having to constantly move money around” when cuts were made without the office’s notification in the past, Duchak asked commissioners to include him and administrative assistant Rena Gumerlock in any needed cuts.

“If there has to be adjustments made, I would prefer Rena and I be able to do that,” he said.

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Commission President Jack Evans said, “We can sit down and talk with you about it.”

The request “makes sense,” Commissioner Greg Simmons, in his first year on the commission, said. The third commissioner, John “Bud” O’Brien was not at the meeting.

The commissioners last week wrapped up annual budget meetings with elected officials and other department heads in the county. The meetings are held as part of preparations for the county’s annual appropriations, which are approved by the commission near year’s end.

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