BC 2009 05 19 Recessed - Budget Meeting

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May 19, 2009 (Recessed Meeting) Page 1388 maximizing the prevalence of reusable products, minimizing the use of those that are disposable, and purchasing products that contain recycled content when possible and feasible. The county's fleet of vehicles is much more fuel efficient and emits fewer emissions. These measures conserve natural resources and tax dollars. The Board's sustainable community initiative also includes many outwardly-directed elements: One is a multifaceted approach to developing a more robust local food economy. Another is the use of land use plans and regulations that seek to direct development into the municipalities and encourage rural preservation in the unincorporated areas that lack infrastructure. A new element to this initiative is recommended for FY 2010: The establishment of a trust fund to support a local food economy and the purchase of conservation easements. Money will come from the payment of deferred taxes on property removed from the present- use value system, providing a rational nexus between the program and its funding source. This period of economic contraction and hardship we are in offers additional opportunities to build upon what has already begun. In the absence of the immediate pressures resulting from growth and development, our local governments and businesses can collaborate to better position our community for a greener and more prosperous future, one that focuses on the triple bottom line, is more independent and enjoys some insulation from the volatility and whims of globalization. One such opportunity is a joint planning effort with the Town of Harrisburg (which follows a very similar and successful effort with Concord). This plan will be completed in FY 2010 and is envisioned be very broad in nature, planning for and implementing measures aimed at sustainable development patterns and economic development. The Board of Commissioners hopes to engage each local government in the county in similar efforts (see the Board's goals and desired outcomes beginning on page 15). Another opportunity is found in a newly formed sustainability council, housed at the Cabarrus Regional Chamber of Commerce. This effort provides a forum for business and government to share and collaborate along the path to realizing a positive triple- bottom-line for the community we call home. Conclusion While Cabarrus County government hasn't escaped the ravages of the global recession, it is in a much better position to weather it than many other local governments because of the Board of Commissioners' conservative policies and embrace of a sustainable business model. Spending can be reduced over the next few years (as economic conditions dictate) from previously planned levels without adversely affecting services or burdening our citizens with inordinately high property tax rates. Further, we should find opportunity in crisis and promote collaboration among the governments, businesses, nonprofits and citizens of the county to make us the model for the sustainable community of the future. I appreciate the efforts of those who contributed to the preparation of the budget, and those of the many county employees who proudly and effectively serve our citizens everyday - I offer them my sincere gratitude. I especially want to thank deputy county managers Pam Dubois and Mike Downs, budget and performance manager Kalesha Kennedy, assistant finance director Susan Fearrington, budget analyst Francesca Martin and the county's department directors for their considerable efforts.