The St. Louis County council has proposed budget cuts that County Executive Sam Page says would have a significant impact on essential services. These cuts, totaling $14 million, could result in limited staff, slower services, postponed parks projects, and potential delays to the new senior property tax freeze. Page has warned that the cuts could also affect programs to maintain and demolish dilapidated properties, as well as services such as snow plowing and street repair.
Months of private budget talks between county officials were fruitless, and the proposed cuts are an attempt to address the county’s projected $27 million budget deficit. Chair Shalonda Webb stated that the cuts aim to reduce spending that is eroding financial reserves.
Republican Councilman Dennis Hancock emphasized the need for fiscal caution, while Page outlined how each proposed cut would impact the county’s departments. The public administrator’s office, responsible for handling the affairs of neglected individuals, would face significant cuts, potentially affecting its ability to provide necessary services to vulnerable individuals.
The proposed cuts could also impact the public Health department, county administration department, and parks projects. The council is expected to make a decision on the budget cuts by the end of the year. If approved, the cuts could take effect as soon as Tuesday.
This news comes amidst ongoing efforts to address the county’s financial challenges, with various stakeholders emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the potential impacts of the proposed budget cuts.
