Agenda - 06-08-1982 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro 1 chc.1rnRer-Z of ezvcommerzce 104 S.ESTES DR./P O.BOX 2897/CHAPEL HILL,N.C.27514 (919)967-7075 TO: Orange County Board of Commissioners FROM Executive Committee DATE: June 7, 1982 RE: Proposed 1982-83 Budget The Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce supports the proposed Orange County Budget for 1982-83 as proposed on May 2 by the County Manager. We applaud the emphasis on cost containment and efficiency. We believe the County's tax payers will appreciate the successful effort to avoid an increase in the tax rate. The Chamber position is based on a review of the proposed budget by Chamber committees and directors, and as a result of a comprehensive discussion of the budget with the County Manager. In taking this position, we are mindful of the impact of the budgets of the two school districts on the overall budget. Their budgets account for about 51% of the total property tax dollars expended. We understand the Commissioners' position in view of the economy. We urge the school dis- tricts and the Commissioners to discuss and resolve their differing view- points prior to next year's budget consideration. The Chamber strongly supports the Manager's program to measure the cost effectiveness and overall performance of the various county departments. We also endorse the proposed plan to strengthen the Sheriff's department and to improve patrol and investigative services. The County supplies a wide range of human services to Orange County resi- dents, including families of students attending the University here and probably other schools in nearby areas. Most of these services are free. The Chamber recommends that wherever possible medical and health fees should be charged on the basis of ability to pay. Such an approach has been recommended by the Medical Health Division of the Health Department; and the Dental Clinic has been doing this for some time. In face of the likelihood of further reductions in state and federal giants, such a program should be broadened and given strong support.