Supes Adopt “Steady-as-you-go” Budget

On Tuesday, the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a $1.37 billion balanced budget for Fiscal Year 2013-2014, which begins on July 1st. The Board’s action concluded two days of public hearings and months of preparation.

For the second year the Budget contains an $8.0 million contribution for roads infrastructure. “This caution budget invests in our County roads and infrastructure, but we’re focused on assisting our most vulnerable populations and we continue to plan for the future by funding important economic development tools,” said Fourth District Supervisor Mike McGuire.

The adopted Budget also supports the County’s public safety, health and human service programs as well as continued investments in road maintenance. In addition, the Budget maintains a $3.3 million contingency for future uncertainties and preserves one time funds for one time purposes.

Although the Budget is balanced, important county priorities such as long term funding for the Road Fund infrastructure, pension cost reduction and increases in reserves are challenges the Board will continue to work on.

First District Supervisor Susan Gorin commented, “We have weathered the storm through difficult budget years.  This budget represents a steady-as-you-go approach as we navigate towards a new normal.  We continue to have many long term challenges ahead of us including criminal justice, health care reform and roads and we are well positioned to meet them.”

 The Budget funds 3,906 full time equivalent (FTE) positions, an increase for 170 positions from last year primarily in health and human services and criminal justice programs. The Budget includes funding to enhance the Sheriff’s narcotics program.