"As the budget year begins for 2021, we would like to suggest that due to the Covid 19 pandemic and records unemployment, that the County take a major step in reducing budgets and showing responsible considerations for the citizens of our County.
We acknowledge the wise use of taking the new construction property tax, since that only pays a small portion of the costs of having more homes and more demands on the County resources.
During the recession of 2008 and 2009, the Commissioners took responsible cuts to alleviate the need for more taxes. It was a time when budgets and taxes were cut. Holding the line at last year's budget levels may not be enough to alleviate the tax burden on the citizens of Canyon County. Unemployment is much higher now than it was during the recession. Taking a 10 percent reduction would save over 10 million dollars, and may not be enough but it's doable. Giving salary increases during a pandemic is not a good use of taxpayer moneys.
Holding the line on salaries and freeze on any new employees would be a good start. Perhaps retiring some early would be a possibility. This is a time to think outside the box and limit spending.
We encourage you to be responsible and wise with the limited resources of the property owner. We realize that sales taxes will be much lower as well. It's time to quit spending and start reductions in the budget.
Thank you for your time.
CCCC Committee"
