YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) – With just five months left until the next fiscal year, the Yuma County Board of Supervisors met to consider how to make the most efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

“I have to say it's a fiscally sound, sustainable and conservative budget that will serve our residents, businesses and visitors well,” Yuma County Executive Ian McGothy said.

He also said that he has seen many improvements this year and shared one thing he hopes will continue to improve in the future.

“The 40-hour PTO buyback is again encouraged as an option for employees to partially participate, as well as the continuation of loan repayment, tuition repayment and internship programs,” McGouche said.

Yuma County employees could also see a pay increase of about 3 percent in the near future.

If adopted, it would go into effect in July and cost the county about $2 million.

However, one boss thinks the raise should be higher.

“To me, 3, 4 percent is just barely catching up. They talk about inflation and its impacts and they say 2 percent is good enough, 3 percent is good enough, but that's not true,” said Tony Reyes, Yuma County District 4 Board of Supervisors.

The next step will be for the Yuma County Board of Supervisors to meet with all departments, agencies and outside stakeholders to prepare for the adoption of a tentative budget, scheduled for June 3.