County Officials Keeping Close Watch On Budget

In the present state of the economy, it is  natural to have worries regarding money obtained and used for government purposes. That worry evolves around whether or not the tax dollars are being used efficiently. Following is an explanation from McHenry County officials regarding the County's financial picture.

"Recently, a recap was presented to the McHenry County Board regarding the County's Fiscal Year 2011 financial strength through the first quarter. The highlights as presented to the County Board are as follows:

"One of the most important is the budget and its variables. The County is keeping a close watch on the budget and is ready to respond accordingly to the outside budget variables.

"The County began the current fiscal year process, FY11, with a projected deficit. Concerns arose related to cuts from the state, and what cost cutting measures to consider. The County was able to reduce personnel costs, contractual costs, and adjust revenue forecasts, resulting in a balanced budget.

"The 2011 Budget included no raises, but it also included no layoffs and no reduction in services to the constituency.

"Further, the County has worked within its means to tighten its belt to address its projected deficit by addressing overtime, freezing open positions, reducing contractual costs, and adjusting revenue forecasts.

"The County's reliance on funding from the Federal and State Governments were addressed. It was determined that only 9.41% of the projected revenues are from the Federal Government and 6.37% come from the State.

"The County does rely on State and Federal funding for various programs such as salary reimbursements, grant programs, the jail rental program, and care of the elderly, but the likelihood of all funding being eliminated at once is unlikely. The County's budget can be used as a tool to address the programs that may be affected by scaling back funding.

"The County's General Fund has historically finished in a financial strong position because of the ongoing financial management process the County Board has developed."