PORT TOWNSEND — Jefferson County commissioners know what their priorities are.
They rate law and justice, public health, enhancing natural resources, investment in community infrastructure to encourage economic development and long-term capital facilities planning as their highest priorities to accomplish during the 2006 county budget cycle.
The commissioners this week also prioritized operating within a business plan based on sustainable resources, measured performance and outstanding customer service.
In passing their budget goals and objectives plan, the commissioners also committed to preparing a budget that is “citizen friendly” and clearly identifies resources needed and the services to be provided by each program.
Fiscal budget objectives included in the plan:
* A balanced budget with a focus on long-term financial analysis.
* Growth in the general fund property tax shall not exceed 1 percent, estimated to be $53,143, plus taxes collected on new construction.
* Growth in road fund property taxes should not exceed 1 percent plus taxes collected on new construction.
* Consider supplemental 0.1 percent sales tax as authorized by legislation to fund chemical dependency and mental health needs.
* Any proposed use of “banked capacity,” which is now at $493,322 and 9.6 percent in general fund, will be for one-time, non-recurring expenses.
* Examine fee levels and ensure all fees are set at a level that recaptures the cost of the service being provided.
Strategic budget objectives include:
* Supporting an effective economic development strategy for the county that encourages participation by the city of Port Townsend, Port of Port Townsend, the Jefferson County Economic Development Council and other interested parties.
* Conduct compensation surveys for non-union positions to ensure that the county’s wages and benefits reflect the cost of personnel conducting county business.
* Develop a countywide land-use inventory and infrastructure database with accompanying economic analysis to guide future planning decisions.
