In introducing the proposed County Budget for 2010 at Wednesday Commissioners Meeting, Charles Douts, Jr., County Administrator, observed:
- Budget is “balanced and does not include any tax increase.”
- Benefited from 1% growth in real estate assessments over the year and a resulting $5 million in increased revenue.
- Payroll is flat as compared to 2009. Occurred through not filling vacancies and by implementing efficiencies per recommendations of studies.
- County match for human services is reduced by $1.2 million because the state grants have been reduced.
Douts said county will continue to look for savings over the coming year to see how county core services are delivered and are they being done in the most efficient manner.
He opined that the pick up of housing in the county is encourages him to believe that the recession will come to an end in 2010.
Commissioner Scott Mountain observed: Saving on match money is deceptive because there is less money coming from the state. Once funds given by state and federal government are exhausted, county could be put in a position where every cent above that will be at the cost of the county tax payers since many services are mandated.
Martin further explained that even when not mandated, responsibility may fall on the county and gave as an example how every April the Drug and Alcohol Commission exhausts its funds and seeks county funds to maintain its core services.
Commissioner Craig Lehman noted that later in the budget process there will be a need to add a list of capital projects for 2010 along with programs.
Chairman Dennis Stuckey said they were close to an agreement on capital projects. He added there would be significant cuts from last year and the necessity to spend borrowed money wisely.
Martin thanked department heads and all employees for their input and cooperation in preparing the budget. He observed that the unemployment rate is at 10.2% and we read stories of state governments and industries taking 5% pay cuts. He added that the commissioners are happy they are not passing on a tax increase in this environment.
Craig Lehman also praised the “Budget Team” for their hard work.
A member of the audience complimented the commissioners for not raising taxes for two years.
