09/15/2010 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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4. BUDGET OVERVIEW BY COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR JOSEPH A. BAIRD County Administrator Joseph Baird revealed that this budget is the result of four years of downturn in the economy, and that during those four years of challenges, the County lost $26 million in Ad Valorem taxes, about 80% of the building permit revenue, and about 35% in sales tax revenue. He announced that the peak budget of four years ago was $472 million, and today it is $259,455,120, down from $358 million from last year, a reduction of 27%. Administrator Baird described the challenges and cost initiatives that the County has had to make. These include reorganizations, reductions in staff, decreased contract negotiations, small service reductions, and cutting non -profits. Administrator Baird reported that this year's budget had few Ad Valorem tax increases (only in land acquisition); the millage rate was the same or reduced; there were no proposed rate increases; and even though Ad Valorem taxes were reduced, the County was still able to open an additional library and fire station. He stated that the reductions in services included cutting the library hours and eliminating lifeguards at Treasure Shores Beach Park. 5. AD VALOREM FUNDS 5.A. AD VALOREM MILLAGE AND AD VALOREM BUDGET GENERAL FUND Administrator Baird announced that the proposed millage for the General Fund is 3.0892, 11.39% below rollback, and the proposed budget is $72,753,961, 13.6% less than last year. He recognized the sacrifices of the Constitutional officers and reported that their budget cuts account for a $2.3 million reduction; the elimination of seven positions would save $521,204, and the Teamsters' pay raises account for about $437,000. 2 September 15, 2010 Final Budget Hearing