County leaders discuss cuts as budget battle begins
County commissioners and council members are meeting with department heads this week to decide where cuts can be made to make up for the $6 million shortfall in next year's budget. (WSBT photo) SOUTH BEND — It's a big week for St. Joseph County leaders as they begin looking for ways to fill a $6 million deficit in next year's budget. Related Content
The loss comes as Indiana's new property tax caps take effect. Monday morning, county commissioners and council members began meeting with department heads to decide where cuts can be made. Each department has been asked to cut 8 percent. It began with the Juvenile Justice Center. Probate Judge Peter Nemeth says he'd like to make up the loss with a contract that charges Elkhart County to house its juvenile inmates. He said the money made would offset the 8 percent needed in cuts. If that won't work, Nemeth said he'd have to close a detention pod which would eliminate 18 beds. But he's hoping it doesn't come to that. “I think we would benefit by being able to keep our entire facility open instead of closing it because of the budget restraints,” he explained. “And I think it would benefit Elkhart County as well because they would get top-notch service for the juveniles at a reasonable cost.” Those budget hearings continue Tuesday. Most Popular
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Thu, Mar 18
South Bend
