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November 21st, 2006

COMMISSIONERS REVIEW GENERAL FUND PRELIMINARY 2007 BUDGET

SKAGIT COUNTY – Skagit County’s 2007 budget picture is expected to be rosier than anticipated earlier this year, according to Administrator Gary Rowe. “Record new construction has increased the property tax forecast and revenue growth, particularly from investment income, is higher,” said Rowe.

Although the revenue picture appears more positive, on the expense side, medical premiums for county employees are expected to rise by 22 percent. Also, Skagit County’s portion of employee retirement benefits has been adjusted by 96.8 percent by the State of Washington requiring an increased contribution of more than $600,000.

The preliminary budget shows a net revenue balance of $512,437 but does not include supplemental department requests and a cost living increase for non-represented employees. According to Rowe, if the Commissioners decide to grant some or all of those requests they will have to explore additional revenue options that could include raising planning and permit fees and utilizing available banked property tax capacity, not taken in prior years.

Supplemental budget expenses totaled $1,403,718 with the majority of that amount being requested for new positions in the criminal justice system.

The Skagit County Commissioners will hold a public hearing to approve the 2007 budget at 10:00 a.m., December 4, 2006.

The preliminary budget summary is posted online at www.skagitcounty.net

For further information, contact: Dan Berentson
360-419-3461

Related: Budget Summary (Pdf)