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Bubb talks about the budget

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It is expected the Licking County Commissioners will pass the finalized budget on March 18th.

Commissioner Tim Bubb says because they are into the first quarter, they know what their revenue will look like. 

He says that the budget is down from last year. 

“Last year, the budget was $50, 950,000. The final budget this year is about $45, 934,000 so its about $5 million less than last year.”

He adds that taking over the Building Code Department has, at least for the moment, added to their revenue stream. 

“Permits are up as of February, which is good for the local economy, that more building, both housing and commercial permits were taken out in February as compared to a year ago.”

Bubb adds that even though his funding sources are a bit different (from car registrations and gas taxes) County Engineer Tim Lollo was able to keep roads in decent shape during the recent snow. 

Bubb says though it is unlikely, the budget’s dollar amount may be a bit different from when they actually pass it due to lass minute requests from department heads and elected officials.