Howard County Executive Ken Ulman declared the state of the county strong, yet acknowledged it could face no revenue growth in next year’s budget and must prepare for possible cuts.
“A year ago, I stood before you and said that the state of our county was strong and getting stronger. Though much has changed since then, I am pleased to stand before you once again and report that the state of Howard County is strong,” he said.
“Over the next 12 months, however, this strength will be tested, perhaps like never before.”
Ulman’s remarks came before 400 guests during the annual state of the county address Wednesday at the Turf Valley Resort and Conference Center in Ellicott City.
“Even from a position of relative prosperity, we in Howard County are not immune to the problems of the world around us, and it is important to spell out exactly how this crisis is impacting Howard County,” he said.
The county, in fact, has experienced an 8.5 percent average annual revenue growth during the past five years, he said.
However, because of a shortfall in income tax revenue and other tax revenue this year, Ulman has asked all department heads to submit their budget requests with 5 percent reductions from this past year.
As a result of the dire times, more residents have been turning to officials for help, especially with eviction prevention assistance and energy assistance support, he said.
“Even as demand for county services grows, I can assure you that we remain committed to providing the highest level of service to all our residents,” Ulman said.
“We will not use the economic downturn — the time when government is needed most — as an excuse to ignore this commitment.”
He said he hoped cuts wouldn’t be necessary, but that the state’s $2 billion budget shortfall was a clue to difficult times ahead.
Ulman’s remarks weren’t all doom and gloom, as he peppered his speech with positive aspects of life, such as the county’s improving schools and strong commitment to public safety.
He noted many recent accomplishments such as reducing employee take-home cars by 60 percent to save $700,000 annually and new recycling bins and other recycling efforts that generated $1.6 million this past year, a 73 percent increase over the previous year.
He also stressed the importance of continuing with plans to develop Town Center in Columbia, move toward a greener community and ensure residents get the health care they need. Council members reacted to Ulman’s speech with apprehension yet expressed confidence in Ulman and department leaders.
“We do face challenges, but I’m glad the county executive recognizes that within the many challenges, there are many opportunities,” said Councilman Calvin Ball.
“I do have concerns about the revenue projections, but I’m optimistic that through collaboration and good planning we’ll come through the challenges stronger.”
Councilwoman Courtney Watson said it was appropriate to ask department heads to request leaner budgets.
“We have good department heads, and I’m confident they’ll minimize the impact on services,” she said.
