Fiscal Responsibility and the County Budget

  In Nelson County, we are extremely fortunate for the experienced and professional finance staff who serve both the County Government and the County Schools. My experience in handling the financial matters for a family business, a successful restaurant, a private school, and a handful of non-profits over the years provides me with the ability to recognize the complexities faced in financial planning, the drafting of budgets and the balancing of expenses and revenues.

  Every year the Board of Supervisors reaffirms the financial priorities for the county based on both long and short-term goals which we project. We do this being acutely aware that we must evaluate both county debt and county reserves to set the tax rate and approve the yearly budget.

  It is my opinion that the tax rate should not be set before a thorough review of expected revenues and expenses can be done which includes the county’s financial commitment to our schools. The county contribution to our public schools is by far the largest portion of yearly expenses. Our schools are dependent on knowing clearly and in a timely manner what they will receive from the county so they can offer employment contracts to returning and new staff and administration. Ideally, the public hearing for both the tax rate and draft budget should be held concurrently, and the budget finalized soon after.