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December 10, 2007

SKAGIT COUNTY COMMISSIONERS APPROVE 2008 GENERAL FUND BUDGET

SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously today to pass a $50,378,910 General Fund Budget. The budget allows for a one percent increase in the property tax levy plus new construction, provided by state law. New construction in Skagit County exceeded $600 million for the second year in a row.

In 2007 general fund expenses are projected to fall $795,450 below the adopted budget with revenues over budget of $656,737. After market adjustments, the Skagit County general fund balance should increase by $783,000. Last year, Skagit County utilized banked property tax revenue not taken in previous years to present a balanced budget.

Commissioner Don Munks commented on the significant amount of new construction in Skagit County the past two years and warned that the revenue received may be less in future years.

Commissioner Ken Dahstedt said that expenses increase faster than the 1 percent increase in taxes allowed by Washington State Law. “It’s a fragile process that takes a team effort,” he said.

Skagit County Commissioner Sharon Dillon thanked staff, department heads and elected officials for their work on producing the Budget. Munks made the motion for approval which was seconded by Dahlstedt. The budget passed unanimously.

The 2008 budget includes a three percent general wage adjustment for non-represented employees and a contingency for represented employees totaling $1,022,000 and $452,000 for additional Law and Justice personnel.

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