Kathy Funk Baxter presents Cowlitz County treasurer's revenue and expense report

Cowlitz County Commissioners gathered on April 15, 2025, to discuss the financial health of the county, focusing on the treasurer's office and its revenue streams. The meeting highlighted the importance of property taxes, which are projected to exceed $21 million this year, as a primary source of funding for county operations.

Kathy Funk Baxter, the finance director, presented a detailed overview of the treasurer's financial data, noting that property tax collections are expected to increase significantly as the April 30 deadline for the first half of taxes approaches. Currently, the county has collected nearly $2 million, with expectations for a larger influx as more taxpayers fulfill their obligations.

The discussion also touched on other revenue sources, including fines, penalties, and miscellaneous income, which includes unclaimed property receipts. Baxter explained that while the county's revenue projections appear stable, the timing of tax statement distributions has impacted collection rates slightly compared to the previous year.

In terms of expenditures, the treasurer's office reported personnel costs as the largest expense category, with no current vacancies among its ten full-time employees. The commissioners expressed satisfaction with the department's management of delinquent personal property taxes, noting a significant reduction in outstanding accounts due to proactive collection efforts.

The meeting concluded with a positive outlook on the county's investment pool, which has a balance of over $411 million and is yielding competitive interest rates. This financial stability is crucial as the county prepares for upcoming budget discussions and aims to address community needs effectively.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to maintaining fiscal responsibility while ensuring that essential services remain funded through effective tax collection and management strategies. As the April 30 deadline approaches, residents are reminded of their responsibilities regarding property taxes, which play a vital role in supporting local services and infrastructure.