Making The Case For Funding - WMBB News 13 - The Panhandle's News Leader

Commissioners in Bay County are reviewing the budget, line by line to find areas that can be cut. Due to lower property values, the county will have to work with a $2 million shortfall.

On Thursday, commissioners heard from more than a dozen agencies that provide services throughout the county; 16 of them called "outside agencies."

The list includes organizations like the Bay County Economic Development Alliance, Bay Defense Alliance and the Bay County Trolley.

Each of them was asked to cut part of their budget. At the meeting the Trolley announced it would discontinue the Beach Bus service, because of a lack of funding.

The director says after August, it will only run on Labor Day weekend, unless additional funds are allocated.

Commissioner George Gainer says he admires each of the group's dedication, but says it's his responsibility to ensure that the county's money isn't mismanaged.

"I think we've got to look places that we've never looked before. I think we have to hold everyone completely accountable before we can tell someone that we have to lay off people or tell them that they're going to get a minimal raise. I think it's my job to make sure and the board agrees with me."

The commission voted to keep the millage at the same rate, at 3.65 mils. If you live east of the Hathaway Bridge, there's an additional 1.25 mils added for mosquito control and for those living in unincorporated Bay County, you'll pay 1.00 mils for fire services.