By Khalida Sarwari
The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors today launched the first of a series of workshops to review proposed budget recommendations for the 2012 fiscal year.
Santa Clara County Executive Jeff Smith has recommended a budget that addresses a $219.6 million deficit in the county’s general fund through program and service cuts, use of one-time revenue and layoffs.
The $4 billion recommended budget takes into account all services, operations, capital improvements and reserves.
The county’s budget is contingent upon the overall economy. A strong economy means more tax revenue for programs and services. During a weak economy, the county is adversely affected in that revenue decreases as demand for county safety net services increases.
The county faces its 10th consecutive year of budget deficits.
The proposed budget calls for an estimated 110 layoffs, 122 county employees would be bumped to lower-paying positions, and 300 would be transferred to different departments, Smith said today. Layoffs and reductions would not be implemented until August at the earliest, he said.
The workshops will continue through Thursday. Budget hearing meetings to make final decisions on the budget will take place from June 13-17.