LC Comm'rs Seem Unable to Dent Cunningham Budget

Facing a 16.1% tax hike next year, Lehigh County Commissioners have been conducting budget hearings, looking for areas to cut. But Executive Don Cunningham has given them little wiggle room. His $391 million budget reduces employment to 1990 levels and comes in $22 million below what he gave them next year.

Commissioners Glenn Eckhart, Tom Creighton, Andy Roman and Dean Browning are proposing even more reductions, although not enough to avoid a double digit tax hike. Commissioner Bill Hansell actually wants to use gaming revenue to restore funding for two projects.

Here's a summary of the proposed amendments:

* Eckhart wants to freeze wages for non-union workers, saving the County $1.37 million. Will it also drive many County workers into the warm embrace of public sector unions?

* Eckhart and Roman want to eliminate $173,000 in "Quality of Life" grants for Lehigh County non-profits. Expect to see both vilified at Tuesday's budget hearing.

* Eckhart actually wants the $1.67 million in gaming revenue used to reduce the millage rate and provide the tax relief that gambling proponents promised.

* Eckhart wants to reduce the County's contribution to the Lehigh Valley Zoo by $245,000. He will allow them to keep $80,000 to feed the elk and bison.

* Eckhart wants to eliminate the General Services Manager position, which will save the County $88,123 so they can feed the damn buffaloes.

* Comm'r Eckhart proposes elimination of two new Deputy Sheriff positions, and using the $107,561 saved to reduce the tax increase.

* Eckhart and Creighton propose slashing the IT budget by approximately $1.3 million.

* Chairman Dean Browning proposes elimination of longevity pay, step increases and wage hikes for all union workers, excepting Deputy Sheriffs, which will save the County $1.6 million. Implementation is contingent upon collective bargaining.

* Comm'r William Hansell wants to use gaming revenue to restore the $100,000 "MORE for Children" program and provide $75,000 for a regional composting project.

For the wonks among you - and you know who you are - below are the actual amendments.
LC 2011 Budget Amendments