| Calhoun's 2014-15 budget has been approved by the Calhoun Commission, a budget that totals about $2,300,000, with about 40% of the budget being "pass throughs," money from other sources other than county taxpayer funds.
The "pass throughs" are monies used from grants and other funding sources, used for designated purposes or for special projects.
Commission president Scottie "Chip" Westfall said, "Even though we have had declining revenue, through careful money management, and cooperation and dedication of the elected officials and their employees, we have been able to maintain services and pay all of our bills."
County Clerk Jean Simers said the budget will soon be published.
Calhoun County has been able to maintain some of the lowest tax rates in the nation, and has the next to the lowest operating budget of the state's 55 counties.
The downside has been not being able to provide funding for increased services or special needs and projects.
Commissioner Kevin Helmick said "Staying above water continues to be a challenge. We've had commissioners who are serious about keeping the county going."
Commissioners are required by law to balance the county budget within 3%, or the State of West Virginia can seize the commissioners property.
Federal officials are not held to such standards.
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