Things are hectic at the Monroe County Courthouse! At a special budget meeting held last night (3/31), the potential severity of a drop in County revenue was discussed. From losing interest on County money (from 8% on investments to under 1% on investments), to the drop in fees collected by both the building and planning departments (new construction & home improvements are down) the County will be bringing in less money this year than was thought last summer (when the 2009 budget was set). Nearly all of the predicted revenue shortfalls can be attributed to our depressed economy.
The department heads that were present at last night’s meeting were asked to meet in 2 teams to determine whether the budget cuts that will most certainly happen on this year’s appropriated spending will be decided by the Council, or will be based on suggestions from the departments working in teams.
I encouraged the departments where I serve as a liaison to be creative and to think boldly. Of course the Council has the final decision. But I would much rather have the departments decide the best way to save money rather than the Council. The department heads know their side of County business. While I have learned a great deal about County operations, I cannot claim to know best where and how department appropriations should be allocated and then spent. I would, if it’s possible, much rather see the Council divide up appropriations by department (ensuring that the statutory [essential] functions of County government are done AND tying parts of department budgets to the revenues they collect).
With a watchful eye and with regular check-in with each department, the elected or hired departmental leadership would need to adjust their costs and spending as the year progresses. They have the knowledge, experience, and understanding of the most vital aspects of their department and can make the best decisions about any cuts they may need to make.
Well, if being elected to the County Council were not enough, Cartridge World is now downtown! Despite the fact that the crappy economy has hindered my ability to sublet my previous space (College Mall Road, in the Shoppes), I have a great deal more space here at the downtown. I have always wanted to be downtown, as the merchant network here is fabulous. Almost all of the businesses on and near the square are locally owned and operated, and the fact that the store is located within walking distance to many businesses and homes creates a very sustainable model for business operations. Moving the store took a lot of people, time, energy, and patience. I am incredibly grateful to everyone who has helped. Getting the store set up was an even larger task (it seemed), and that process is on-going. After working 23 consecutive hours on Sunday (in addition to the work and stress of moving) has left me exhausted. Somewhere, deep down, I am thrilled to look out of the front window of the store and see one of the busiest thoroughfares in the city.
Stop by! We’re at 114 S. College Ave – between 4th and 5th, 1/2 block south of the square.
And mark your calendars for our grand re-opening party on Earth Day (of course), Wednesday April 22.
