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Today, Franklin County Commissioners approved a $314.9 Million General Revenue Fund (GRF) Operating Budget for 2008. The budget, which reflects a modest growth of 2.8-percent from 2007, keeps the Commissioners commitment to rolling off a quarter-cent of the county’s share of the sales tax while still meeting essential community needs.
Commission President Mary Jo Kilroy, who introduced the 2008 Budget, noted that the Budget reflects the community’s values while living within the county’s means in a challenging budget environment.
“Fiscal responsibility comes from experience and keeping a clear focus on our priorities to ensure that community challenges are being met in a tough budget environment.”
The County’s 2008 all funds budget for 2008 is $1.6 Billion which allows for the execution of several major capital projects such as the New Courts Building, Animal Shelter, and Huntington Park.
“I am pleased our budget is fiscally responsible and responsive to Franklin County’s needs and priorities,” said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “We are providing funding for safety and security, health and social services, arts and culture, and promoting economic development to create jobs – all of which are needed for a thriving community.”
To further enhance the County’s position as one of the most fiscally sound and well managed governments in the state of Ohio and nationally, the County’s Economic Stabilization fund will be reserved at $14.8 Million in 2008 -- the maximum allowed by the Ohio Revised Code, General Fund cash reserves will be increased, Contingency will be funded at the maximum and a one-half million dollar contribution will be provided to the 27th pay period reserve fund.
“This budget reflects our top priority of community safety and security – beginning with our courts and local law enforcement – and extending to support our local economy, ensuring good jobs and opportunities for residents and entrepreneurs and assisting our families, seniors and veterans in need with life-saving services,” stated Commissioner Paula Brooks. “I am also proud that this disciplined budget comes in under the inflation index while still meeting a great many prioritized community needs.”
The 2008 Budget was unanimously approved during the Commissioners’ regularly scheduled General Session meeting and is a fiscally responsible and balanced budget that responds to the challenges facing the Franklin County community in a tough budget environment.
View the 2008 Final Budget Message [PDF]
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