Lackawanna County must still close $1.3M deficit
Published: May 16, 2009
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share thisLackawanna County still has a budget gap to close.
County commissioners were presented earlier this year with budget figures showing a $3 million deficit for 2009, despite layoffs and cost-cutting measures taken in 2008. During a March hearing, county financial advisers estimated the deficit would continue to rise through 2012, reaching almost $10 million if allowed to grow.
Recent bond refinancing has halved the deficit for this year, but commissioners must still address a $1.3 million deficit left looming. If they have a plan to address the shortfall, the commissioners haven't shared it yet.
"We're not prepared to say right now what we might do," said majority Commissioner Mike Washo.
Majority Commissioner Corey O'Brien and Mr. Washo have taken a tax hike for next year off the table, though minority Commissioner A.J. Munchak disagrees with ruling out any option at this time.
A major discussion point is the sale of the Lackawanna County Health Care Center - though the sale would likely not happen this year and would not affect the 2009 budget.
Commissioners have been able to whittle down expenses with cost-cutting measures, including bidding out contracts to get better deals. But $1.3 million is a big gap to fill.
Asked about the potential for layoffs, Mr. Washo said commissioners are seeking other expenses that can be trimmed.
"I think you're going to some more see savings going forward," he said.
Contact the writer: cschillinger@timesshamrock.com
6 posted comments
2. What would the negative impact of not funding this position be to the taxpayers of Lackawanna County?I strongly suspect that there are more than a few county jobs that exist more for political and public benefit.It's time for county government (and indeed all levels of government) to learn the lesson that most families already know: when times are tough you have to cut expenses.