Our Hamilton County officials commendably – and realistically – are making some hard budget decisions.
County Mayor Jim Coppinger rightly wants to avoid an objectionable property tax increase in these tough times.
As a result, he is proposing big spending cuts, including the laying off of 37 county workers. County commissioners in general appear not to object to his proposal.
Coppinger has proposed a budget of $624.3 million for 2011-12 – a reduction from the $638 million budget this year.
On those rare occasions when tax income is flowing in freely, budgeting generously for various wants and needs may be pleasant. But holding the line on taxes and cutting spending are certainly the appropriate steps now.