Faced with declining revenues and a sluggish economy, county officials have cut nearly $13 million from this year's operating budget. Every agency and department has trimmed costs by at least 5 percent, while county officials have assured residents they will not experience any reduction in services.
Projects, such as school and road construction that are already in the works, will continue to move forward, officials said.
"The average citizen won't see any cut in services," said County Executive David R. Craig after a news conference last week to announce reductions in the fiscal year 2009 budget, which began July 1.
The school board cut $5.3 million, the largest single reduction. The decrease could have been as much as $10.5 million had the county not allowed education an exemption from the 5 percent rule, said Jacqueline C. Haas, schools superintendent.
"We cut back on our technology budget, reduced professional and curriculum development, cell-phone use and all out-of-state travel," Haas said. "Every department stepped up to think creatively about these cuts."
Craig opened the news conference with some light banter, but the mood quickly turned somber as he provided details of the cost savings that will take place immediately. While no layoffs are planned, 33 vacancies will not be filled, he said.
He has also reduced funds for temporary positions and overtime. Newly established personnel review and expenditure oversight committees will determine which positions have to be filled and what items must be purchased this year.
Libraries will likely reduce hours to save $500,000. Some county buildings will not be open during the evening. Employee travel, meals and professional training will be curtailed.
"We had a breakfast meeting two weeks ago to discuss cuts," Craig said. "I told staff then that was the last breakfast."
The sheriff's department cut $1.6 million and will not replace 17 vehicles in its fleet, nor will video cameras be installed in several cruisers this year. The department, nearly at full staff, has also temporarily suspended recruitment, said Sheriff L. Jesse Bane.
"We are a lean, mean machine now, but absolutely nothing we have done adversely impacts the services we provide," Bane said. "Public safety is not at risk."
In fact, Bane has told Craig that he might have to reconsider some cuts should the need arise. While the sheriff has asked his managers to review overtime, he has not eliminated the extra pay needed for crime-fighting initiatives.
