Few residents show up to comment on budget

Almost half of County Executive Jim Smith?s proposed $270 million capital budget, unveiled earlier this month, goes toward education. Smith also proposed funding the rest of the county?s middle school renovation program, plus $42 million for the county?s community college and $22 million for teacher salary increases.

Residents who did attend the hearing discussed the need to fund alternative education programs, such as vocational schools, and programs to increase parent involvement in schools. Most of the speakers requested support for the county?s Infants and Toddlers Program, an early intervention system for young children with developmental disabilities and their families.

“We also have a nonverbal son,” Matt Berkey told the council. “Because of these services, our son is a different child now.”

Cheryl Bost, president of the county?s teachers association, applauded the budget for including 5 percent overall salary increases, which she said will help retain teachers and attract new ones to the system. She also thanked Smith for funding instructional helpers and expanding all-day kindergarten.

“We view this as a first step,” she said.

What could prove to be Smith?s most controversial budget decision ? offering a tax credit program for the county?s neediest, instead of a blanket rate cut ? was left unmentioned.

Resident Jan Thomas said she suspected the scheduling of the hearing, which was at the same time as the county?s monthly Board of Education meeting, kept people away.

She told council members the hearing needed to be advertised better.

Council Chair John Olszewski, D-District 7, said residents who still wish to offer input on the budget can use the public comment session at the end of the council?s biweekly meetings, or can submit their statements to their council member in writing.

By law, the council can?t add to the budget, but it can cut from it. Olszewski said council members hope to vote on a final budget May 25.

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