CALHOUN HAS A 2013-14 BUDGET - "It's Been A Real Challenge"

(04/01/2013)

Calhoun Commission president Kevin Helmick said the 2013-14 county budget has been completed, with income expected to be down. "Our primary obligation is to fund the offices and services of elected officials, and there's little left for needed projects and causes," Helmick said. The commission earlier cut the number of employees in official's offices, cut office budgets and cut some benefits. "It's been a real challenge," said commissioner Chip Westfall. County workers have had to forfeit pay increases. "Fortunately some of the cuts were made earlier," said Helmick, with some county commissions making major slashes in 2013. Last week, the Clay County commission told elected officials their offices will all be cut 15% across the board, which means employee reductions. The cuts are being made because of reduced coal severance tax. Kanawha County is saying they will likely ask their employees to pay more of their healthcare costs. They are currently paying 20% of the premiums. "The really bad part of not having disposable cash is losing out on matching funds for grants," said commissioner Weaver.

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