11/19/12 Commissioners start 2013 budget hearings

  • By Nick Sabo
  • November 19, 2012
  • 313
                        
SUMMARY: Revenues expected at $9.97 million Department heads may opt out of budget hearings with the Holmes County Commissioners this year. Commissioners sent out notice to officeholders and others who receive revenues from the general fund that hearings for the 2013 budget are optional. However, several have asked for time to sit down and discuss their finances for next year. Commissioners will have $9,973,653 to work with in 2013, based on a projection of revenues by the county auditor’s office. The number is an estimate and will likely change when a final estimate is certified in January. Commissioners had their first budget hearing Monday Nov. 19 with Kate Shumaker and Lucille Hastings, representing the OSU Extension office. Shumaker asked for $4,500 over last year, all of it for salaries. Shumaker said she has been keeping her budget under control by being frugal with supplies. However, she noted that some equipment may have to be upgraded soon and is trying to plan for such contingencies in the future. The increase in salaries will help retain a part time agricultural educator, Shumaker said. Commissioner Joe Miller told Shumaker the request for increased funding would likely be accepted. “We never know it till the end of the year, but it should be doable,” Miller said. Commissioners are expecting a $1.6 million carry-over in 2013, due largely to an increase in sales tax collections. The county also has been growing a rainy day fund with its share of casino dollars paid by the state. Miller said the Affordable Healthcare Act will weigh heaviest on the budget. “(The budget) should be pretty good,” Miller said. “Next year, the big thing is going to be the health insurance.” Commissioner’s clerk Susan Haun said several more office holders have contacted her to schedule hearings. The next meeting of the Holmes County Commissioners will be held Nov. 26.


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