Comanche County Approves Tentative $12.5M Budget, Extends Burn Ban Through October 4

Comanche County commissioners worked through eight versions of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget before tentatively approving Version 8 on a 2-0-1 vote Monday. The $12.5 million plan cuts most county offices by 10% from last year, with one exception: the sheriff’s department receives a $60,852 increase, bringing its budget to roughly $2.957 million. Commissioners Ryan John and Johnny Owens voted in favor, while Josh Powers abstained, saying he didn’t want to take a side when he disagrees with the direction.

The same meeting produced two other decisions with direct impact on residents. The county burn ban was extended another two weeks, now running through October 4, as dry conditions persist across the area. Commissioners also approved an agreement for design services on 12 bridges in the eastern district, work tied to a partnership with the Comanche Nation on tribal transportation routes.

A final budget vote is expected next week, and that’s the one that locks everything in. County services, road maintenance, and public safety staffing all hinge on what happens at that meeting. What do you think about the sheriff’s department being the only office spared from cuts? Let us know.