Confusion about budget numbers in Fluvanna County may cost constitutional offices there more than $120,000. In times this tight, that is money no one has the room to spare, especially the sheriff.

Fluvanna County's budget process came unraveled almost as soon as it was finished. Last Wednesday the Fluvanna Board of Supervisors adopted the budget. On Thursday an email was sent out from the finance office saying the numbers were wrong; off by $125,000 because retirement costs were miscalculated.

Now, the question is: where is the money going to come from to fix it?

Fluvanna County Sheriff Ryant Washington says his department is being squeezed for most of that money; his share alone would be almost half.

"We're talking about folk's livelihood," Washington stated.

Of Washington's $2.1 million budget, 86 percent is personnel and salaries. It has already been slashed by $95,000 this year and another $55,000 could force deputies off the streets.

"We don't know at this point," said Washington.

The board of supervisors has called a May 5 meeting to address the budget mistake. They did not return our calls for comment. Interim County Administrator Shelly Wright would not go on camera about the money error, but says it is not the intent of the board to place additional burdens on constitutional offices.

Still, the sheriff is still feeling the pinch from the first round of cuts.

"I have confidence that the board will make up the error that was made in the benefits side," Washington said. "But still, that leaves us at $95,000."

No matter where it comes from, Fluvanna County needs to find $125,000. Wright says prior to next month's meeting she wants to meet with department supervisors, including Sheriff Washington, to talk about the impact this possible funding would have on the department.