Golden – Jefferson County’s proposed 2007 budget holds the line on spending – slightly increasing operational expenses while decreasing capital improvement projects.
Among recommendations for the $397.9 million budget laid out Tuesday was elimination of $26,000 for services provided by the Jefferson Conservation District.
The proposal didn’t sit well with several residents, who noted the district helps property owners with weed control, pasture management, erosion and fire rehabilitation.
Among those questioning the cut was Mary Ramstetter, who with her husband, Charlie, operates a 600-acre ranch in Golden Gate Canyon.
“This is not the time to throw in the towel on projects that help keep the county green. We should be talking about increasing the (district’s) budget,” Ramstetter told the Board of County Commissioners. “We need to keep dirt under our feet.”
Budget director Todd Leopold said that with a tight budget, “this was one area” where a cut could be made since the services are also offered through various county departments.
The operating budget for 2007 is $341.4 million, up 2.2 percent from 2006’s $334 million. County administrator Jim Moore said property tax revenues are projected to increase 1.5 percent in 2007, with a 0.3 percent increase in sales taxes.
Capital projects planned in 2007 include $4.5 million for building the sheriff’s mountain precinct, $3 million for mandated courtroom expansion and $1.8 million for required election equipment upgrades.
Transportation will consume $20.5 million, including $6.5 million for the Alameda Parkway/C-470 interchange and $2.5 million on the Interstate 70/Colorado 58 interchange near the proposed Cabela’s development.
Comments on the 2007 budget are still being accepted. The county board will make a final budget decision Tuesday.
Staff writer Ann Schrader can be reached at 303-278-3217 or aschrader@denverpost.com.
