County officials are waiting for yet another round of state cuts that will make a lean budget even tighter.
“We?ll see exactly what the cuts are, but either way, we?re bracing for tough fiscal times,” County Executive John R. Leopold said.
The first rollback in state aid is about $23 million, which is less than Gov. Martin O?Malley?s proposed “doomsday budget” that listed Anne Arundel as receiving $53.7 million in cuts if the tax package wasn?t approved. The package was approved during the special session ? along with some cuts.
“We did take a hit, but it wasn?t a horrendous hit,” said State Sen. Janet Greenip, R-Anne Arundel.
“All things considered, it is something we could live with.”
Among the cuts are $9.6 million in education and $1.8 million in Program Open Space.
Leopold met with the county delegation last week to discuss budget issues and funding. He would not say what level of cuts the county could withstand before it would adversely affect services and education.
“His plea to us was to be aware of that and help the county in any way we can,” said Del. Don Dwyer, R-Anne Arundel.
“We?re clearly committed to doing that ? but within reason,” he said, adding that reducing growth would help the state?s budget woes.
More funding reductions could come to Anne Arundel, as the General Assembly will have to resolve $213 million in cuts it vowed to make.
County officials said they hope needed improvements around the county for the Base Realignment and Closure expansion at Fort Meade will keep more money in the county.
