DuPage County Budget Is $7.3 Million Less Than Last Year

DuPage County Board Tuesday approved a fiscal year 2013 budget that is $7.3 million less than the previous year, according to a press release from DuPage County.

Board Chairman Dan Cronin of Elmhurst said in a statement the $432.6 million budget represents his commitment to reduce the financial burden of government on taxpayers. Since taking office, Cronin has reduced the county’s budget by more than $13 million, according to the release. 

“It is important that we demonstrate to taxpayers that government can make the sacrifices necessary to meet the bottom line. The fiscal year 2013 budget is a testament to that pledge," Cronin said.

Finance Chairman Paul Fichtner of Elmhurst said this is the fifth consecutive year the county has not raised property taxes. 

“While many levels of government are struggling to make ends meet and have raised taxes in order to balance their budgets, DuPage County has continued to hold the line on taxes. Our fiscal management has allowed us to maintain services without raising taxes,” Fichtner said. 

The budget reduces full-time headcount by seven positions, to 2,227. It appropriates $16.9 million for campus and county-wide improvements, including the Enterprise Resource Planning system, which is expected to save taxpayers $9 million over 20 years due to consolidation of functions and greater efficiencies. 

The County Board also approved a transfer of any available excess cash over the prior year’s ending balance from the general fund to a capital infrastructure fund.

It is estimated that $800,000 will be transferred and used to pay for additional transportation, drainage and campus facility projects in 2013. Any additional excess cash over the estimated $800,000 would be transferred to the Stormwater Management Fund, according to the release.

“DuPage County is committed to public safety and this additional money will allow us to accomplish more projects in the new year,” Cronin said.

The new budget year will begin Dec. 1. Details of the approved budget can be viewed on the DuPage County website.