Some Agencies Asking For Sizable County Increases

Tuesday, May 03, 2005

Some agencies said Tuesday they need sizable funding increases from the County Commission.

On the second day of annual budget hearings, Guy Bilyeu of the Humane Educational Society asked an increase from $259,434 to $316,792.

He cited high insurance costs and said the HES needs to hire two new animal care workers to keep in compliance with animal care standards.

The Convention and Visitors Bureau asked to go from $2,329,945 to $2,490,338. Commission Chairman Fred Skillern noted that funding to the CCVB is based on its tourism performance.

Bob Doak, CCVB president, said the room tax is up 6 percent and he said convention bookings have shown a 43 percent rise.

The Partnership for Families, Children and Adults asked an increase from $1,116,473 to $1,212,106.

The AIM Center asked to go from $72,488 to $124,415.

Caring is seeking to be added to the list of funded agencies, asking $25,000. Alexian Senior Neighbors requested a first-time $41,700.

Most other agencies said they would stay at the same level or asked for smaller increases.

The commission is expected to pass a budget without a tax increase.


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