County officials plan budget review

Wahkiakum County commissioners will meet next week with department heads to discuss potential budget adjustments for 2009 and 2010.

Officials hope to avoid the personnel cuts that took place last fall as the county dealt with a revenue shortfall. They've been expecting a $500,000 or larger revenue decline for next year, but Tuesday, commissioners said it might not be so bad.

"We'll get through this year, and next year possibly, too," said Commissioner Blair Brady.

"Our goal is to offset the shortfall," said commission Chair Dan Cothren.

In a letter to department heads, commissioners said they would review budget activity for the first half of 2009, make projections for the second half of the year, and discuss potential changes for 2010.

Health and Human Services Administrator Judy Bright and Sheriff Dan Bardsley will meet with the board on Tuesday afternoon.

On Wednesday, the board will meet with Building and Planning Director Chuck Beyer, Public Works Director Pete Ringen, Clerk of the Board Holly Pfenniger, Prosecuting Attorney Dan Bigelow, and Weed Control Supervisor Bob Brons.

On Thursday, they'll meet with District Court Judge Bill Faubion, Superior Court Clerk Kay Holland, Fair Manager Sarah Lawrence, Treasurer Paula Holloway and Auditor Diane Tischer.

A time with Extension Agent Carrie Kennedy hadn't been set.