Lack Of State Budget Concerns Commissioners

Pennsylvania is now some three and a half months into its fiscal year and still has no budget. That problem has many counties looking at ways to survive. Worker furloughs and program cuts are now being instituted statewide. Commissioners Nick Sherman and Larry Maggi both expressed frustration with the lack of a budget because about 80% of the Washington County budget is dependent on the state. Both commissioners agree that the county is holding its own, but not for long. According to Maggi, prudent spending of past administrations have allowed the county to build up a prudent reserve. Sherman says recent actions such as its fleet services campaign and privatization of senior meals have contributed to helpful savings. Both commissioners are concerned that a continued stand off in Harrisburg will threaten services to the most vulnerable of citizens, children and the elderly. Sherman says that the county is working with the finance department daily to keep up with expenses. He is hoping that furloughs are not in the offing. He says that borrowing money is out of the question because of the interest that would be paid on the loan for however long the loan would last. Sherman and Maggi are calling on State Legislature and the Governor to work on finding a resolution.