County struggles with budget deficit

In an effort to move along the county’s stalled budget process, Glenn County lawmakers have ordered department chiefs to further slash their operating budgets.

After eliminating nearly $1.3 million from the 2008-2009 proposed budget in the first and second round of cuts, Glenn County is still faced with a $468,000 shortfall, county officials said Tuesday.

Glenn County Finance Director Don Santoro said the county could reduce the shortfall by tapping into law library funds, hospital reserve funds and the county’s general reserve funds, but it would still leave a $270,000 deficit to spread amongst the other departments.

That means a $98,000 cut to public safety, $60,000 to planning and public works, and $40,000 to the assessor’s office.

Department officials say the cuts would decimate their departments, resulting in more layoffs and a sharp reduction in public services.

“The words ‘rainy day’ have been tossed around, but it’s been more like living through a hurricane the past three or four years,” said Probation Chief Brandon Thompson. “There is nothing left to cut.”

Glenn County Sheriff Larry Jones, who is currently down five officers, said additional cuts to his department would greatly reduce his ability to protect the public.

Supervisors said Tuesday they want to protect law enforcement, but that it would mean the other departments would have to absorb the entire shortfall. 

“It’s going to be tough,” said Supervisor Mike Murray, chairman. “They’re already leaner and meaner. But those that are going to bear the brunt of it are going to have to bear the brunt.”

Others say that could result in serious problems, including the inability for departments to perform mandated programs and services.

“It’s a snowball effect,” said Agriculture Commissioner Mark Black. “We can’t reduce staff without reducing revenue. That results in the reduction of more staff.”

The budget process will continue with department officials working out several different scenarios to cover the shortfall, with and without cuts to public safety.

The board directed staff to return Oct. 7 with explanations of what impacts the cuts will have on personnel and services.