Shortfall in revenue, need for emergency radio system play roles in New Kent supervisors’ budget options
With the reduction of off-track betting revenue generated from Colonial Downs and the need to upgrade emergency radio equipment in the county for FY 2014-15, New Kent supervisors are weighing options to cover a projected $402,000 budget shortfall.
As one of the options proposed by County Administrator Rodney Hathaway during an April 23 budget work session, supervisors will look to recover the aforementioned funds through adjustments in real estate taxes, eliminating a proposed community development director position, and reducing funding for county schools.
An option favored by supervisors keeps the real estate tax at the current rate of 84 cents per $100 of assessed value. Updated revenue projections would add $147,818 to cover the deficit. Eliminating the proposed community development director position would save $107,509, and the schools’ proposed budget would be trimmed by $146,873.
But the hour and a half work session did not come without several questions to be addressed. At the crux of discussion is the county’s Capital Improvement Plan and the proposal of a public safety radio system for emergency services as well as county schools.
“I think we need those radio towers,” said District 5 representative Ray Davis. “I just don’t see why it’s so expensive.”
Fire chief Rick Opett informed supervisors that a majority of the costs stem from new equipment. Using handheld radios as an example, he said that 400 new radios would have to be purchased at an estimated $5,000 apiece.
“Overall, the project will cost $8.4 million,” Hathaway added. “We’ve already received a $400,000 grant so we will be responsible for $8 million.”
According to the county administrator, the towers would cost the county $960,000 over the next 10 years in debt services. Despite having an option to increase the tax rate by four cents (to 89 cents per $100 of assessed value), supervisors quickly shot down that proposal.
“I know we have some issues with the current towers, but I don’t want to raise taxes,” said Davis. “It’s already bad as it is.”
“I agree with Mr. Davis,” said District 4 representative Ron Stiers. “I voted against raising the tax rate last year and I am against it this year.”
Money delegated for the current fiscal year initiated a feasibility study for the towers. Opett said while the first stage of the study is complete, identifying the best location for the proposed towers is currently in the works. According to the fire chief, a deadline is in place for a decision to be made due to the federal grant being offered.
Davis voiced his opinion for finding all possible options for the communication system.
“I know King and Queen has put broadband on their towers,” he said. “I want to see if we can do something similar to reduce costs.”
Chief Sheriff’s Deputy Joe McLaughlin advised the board that their decision affects what other jurisdictions will do.
“I don’t want us to miss the opportunity to be on the system,” he said, referencing joint services with York County. “The cost may be four times as much in a few years if we don’t take advantage of it.”
Supervisors will review the matter at their Apr. 30 work session.
In two other 2014-15 CIP budgetary matters:
–$48,000 delegated to New Kent Sheriff’s Office for a new patrol boat will be removed for the upcoming year. McLaughlin informed county representatives that a $123,000 grant was received on Apr. 22 for the vehicle, as well as other police equipment.
–$75,000 for a current burn building for the fire department continues to be held up in a legal process. The legality stems from a proposed lease agreement, as well as several surrounding localities committed to the project.