COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo.—El Paso County could face an $8.8 million shortfall by the end of the year because of declining revenues and rising costs.
County officials said Tuesday their options include laying off 320 employees, selling parkland and shutting down a program that helps judges decide whether to release defendants on bail before trial.
County revenue from taxes, fees and interest is projected to be $3.5 million below original estimates by the end of the year.
Fuel and medical costs are expected to be $4.8 million more than originally estimated, and the county didn’t reap $500,000 in savings it expected when it refinanced its debt.
The state constitution requires the county to have a balanced budget. Taxes cannot be raised without voter approval.
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Information from: The Gazette,
