AG 2002 04 15 (Regular) - Laserfiche WebLink

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The assumption of the ½ cent sales tax certainly makes fiscal sense. It also assures the county and its cities of a revenue stream that in FY01 and FY02 became too easy for the Governor to hold for the state's use. IF the County Commission chooses not to assume the ~ cent sales tax as a revenue source it will have roughly a $4 million impact on FY04 and beyond on the county and will also impact the cities in similar negative manner. Finally, Counties and Cities are subject to the will of state government. The legislature giveth and taketh at its own discretion. It is difficult for the public to understand that process and often even more difficult to accept. However, it is the rule. Greater flexibility for local government might allow for local needs to be addressed in a more positive manner. If the public accepts conditions as they now exist, then no action is necessary. If the public wants change then legislative leaders need to hear it from those who care. It is an issue that will gain significance and continue to impact every citizen directly or indirectly whether recognized or not. When reviewing the proposals and programs outlined in this document remember - the controlling factor is that expenditures must remain within available revenues and reserves. Setting priorities is a reality of the budget process. The decisions made by the County Commission during review of the FY03 budget will establish expectations for the period July 2002 through June 2003 and beyond. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This budget document, the research and detailed analysis required to provide accurate, thorough presentations depend upon the extended effort of several qualified individuals. The process begins early in the calendar year and is not completed until action by the County Commission to adopt the final budget in June. Staff involved in the process does not receive enough r'~cognition for their input, efforts or expertise. True appreciation can only be conveyed in knowledge that the final budget document is exceptional in formal presentation, readability and comprehensiveness. It is an award winning effort. The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has awarded.Cabarrus County its GFOA- DISTINGUISHED BUDGET PRESENTATION AWARD. The credit of that accomplishment is placed with Ms. Cathie Straub (Budget Officer) and Ms. Rebecca Crabtree (Budget Analyst) for their dedication and professionalism. Their effort brings themselves and the county recognition and honor. "ENHANCING THE PRESENT TO SECURE THE FUTURE BY PROVIDING QUALITY SERVICES TO OUR DIVERSE COMMUNITY", is the County's Mission Statement. Our emphasis is on the quality of services delivered to the public. Dedicated staff, numerous volunteers, elected and appointed officials along with an active electorate are the key to successful outcomes. There will be no perfect or absolute resolution to every issue that county government or the Cabarrus Community must address. It will be the willingness of people to openly discuss concerns and reach consensus that will make the ultimate difference. The County's future is directly linked to citizen involvement, civic infrastructure, and community leadership. Success is never a guarantee and usually it does not come without sacrifice and always requires a commitment to goals. The Envision Cabarrus Visioning process has completed the fa-st comprehensive step to develop "consensus" toward establishing county-wide goals for the future. History will judge this effort with regards to successful outcomes. Individuals involved in elected and appointed capacities in local government rarely receive the recognition deserved. They make personal sacrifices in service to their communities that go far beyond the compensation or acknowledgements garnered. Public service is an honorable task. Personally, I appreciate the role I am allowed to assume in that process as Cabarrus County Manager. Respectfully, Frank W. Clifton, Jr. County Manager