ARCHIVE

Budget proposals dominate commission meeting

Marion County Commission had an agenda of budget proposals Monday from county departments and agencies.

County attorney Susan Robson presented a budget proposal for the attorney's office, reflecting an increase from 2004.

Robson noted her department was not over-budget last year (2003) but was under-budget due to a reimbursement by the state of $9,600.

In 2003, $9,000 was budgeted for contractual expenses (autopsies, coroner, etc.), but $18,568 was actually spent. Robson's budget proposal increased the line item to $18,000.

An increase in capital outlay line item also was requested for a computer program upgrade, Robson said. Other budget items remained the same.

Road and bridge

County road and bridge superintendent Gerald Kelsey presented a proposal for his departments' budgets.

Road and bridge funding will include more funds for road rock and cover materials for sealing, Kelsey said. The equipment fund also reflected the proposal of purchasing a back-hoe, loader, and used motor grader.

There were no changes indicated for the special bridge fund and generic bridge fund. Employee raises were not included in the proposed budget.

County treasurer Jeannine Bateman presented a $4,100 budget increase for the treasurer's department. Increases were noted in capital outlay for a new copier, and contractual services for computer servicing. The department's proposed budget for 2005 was $154,000.

Noreen Weems, director of Marion County Department for Elderly, presented her department's 2005 budget proposal reflecting an increase of $1,100 for capital outlay and personal services. Weems said she had a $8,000 carry-over in 2003 and was hoping to do so again. Some additional funds will be used to replace folding chairs in the senior centers.

Mel Goering and Richard Archer of Prairie View presented an annual report and 2005 budget proposal, requesting $60,000 to continue to provide services.

Goering reported 736 Marion County residents had used the mental health services provided by Prairie View with 201 receiving county support. The Marion office provided $54,118 worth of services to residents.

Of 736 clients, 112 clients were 65 years of age and older with 33 percent of clients being children.

Stan Zienkewica, of Northview Development Services, presented a report and budget proposal of $59,500, an additional $4,000 from 2004.

Zienkewica noted most of the county's funds were used for transportation and health services.

He also requested the support of a resolution or proclamation regarding Northview's 50th anniversary. The commission said they would consider approving a proclamation.

Commissioner Howard Collett asked Zienkewica to provide the number of Marion County residents being served and other information that shows the direct benefit to Marion County residents. Zienkewica said he would research and provide the information.

Quantcast