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Hillsborough Commission To Discuss Budget Concerns Today

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By MIKE SALINERO | The Tampa Tribune

Published: March 31, 2009

TAMPA - Fireworks could erupt this afternoon when the Hillsborough County Commission takes its first hard look at next year's budget shortfall.

County Administrator Pat Bean surprised some commissioners Friday when she said the bleak economic outlook could force her to lay off 1,000 employees over the next two years. Commissioner Al Higginbotham questioned whether so many layoffs are necessary, and he accused Bean of using the layoff announcement to pressure Sheriff David Gee into reducing his workforce.

Higginbotham said he will push hard at today's meeting for evidence that county departments are operating as efficiently as possible. Commissioners will also get a 345-page report comparing the fees charged by county departments to the real cost of the services the departments provide.

The meeting is at 1:30 p.m. on the second floor of the County Center, 601 E. Kennedy Blvd.

Commissioner Jim Norman said he supports Bean and doesn't think she would use budget figures or layoff announcements for a bargaining advantage.

"She's always delivered a very competent budget that's served the needs of this community," Norman said. "This lady is very competent. She's never mislead me."

County financial experts estimate the budget for the next fiscal year starting Oct. 1 will be $110 million short of budgeted revenues. Early projections forecast a deficit of $56 million in fiscal 2011.

Reporter Mike Salinero can be reached at (813) 259-8303.

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