The chart to the right shows that over the last 15 years (1994 to 2009), the county budget increased by almost 400% (exactly 393%). However, the County population grew by only 30% over the same period of time!
The red line shows the total county budget. That includes the funds sent to the county by the state and federal government, as well as our own revenues.
The blue line shows the county funds, alone.
The most significant problem facing Howard County isn't just balancing today's budget. That's a difficult task, but it can be done; indeed, the County Executive has no choice but to cut costs or raise taxes to make the budget balance. The greater concern is what happens when the economy improves?
Where I differ significantly from the current executive is that once the economy starts to pick up, I will NOT spend taxpayer money to increase spending and create new operating programs. Rather, I will work to ensure our economic stability by adequately funding the commitments the county has already made -- such a s funding the future health care benefits for county retirees. Today, that expense looms as an $800 million unfunded liability because the incumbent executive did NOT invest funds to plan and prepare for that future cost. Instead, he increased spending by 14% in BOTH of his first two years as County Executive.
Retiree health care is just one "future expense" that is being ignored.
Trent Kittleman for Howard County 3000 Kittleman Lane * West Friendship, Maryland 21074 *(301) 661-3344 * Campaign Manager: Josette Wheatley (410) 206-9539 Trent@Kittleman2010.com * Josette@Kittleman2010.com
