Lee County Budget Battle: Sheriff Seeks $41M Boost

Commissioners propose a flat budget with no tax increase, but Sheriff Marceno is requesting a 12% increase ($41M). New details: $327M total budget request, $20M for operations, $3.1M for inmate medical care. Resident quotes show mixed feelings. Public hearing in September. The sheriff's budget has grown 65% since 2018. Property tax referendum in November could further complicate funding.