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Auditor says Linn County budget mailer cost $55,600 after savings; calls prompt legislative review
Summary
Auditor Todd reported the county's budget-statement mailer cost $55,600 after staff reduced postage by about $3,000, produced roughly 60 inquiry calls, and that lawmakers are considering simplifying or removing the mailer; county budgets are due April 30.
Auditor Todd told the Board on April 1 that the county's budget statement mailer cost $55,600 after staff reduced the original estimate by about $3,000 and that the mailing prompted roughly 60 phone calls to the auditor's office.
Todd said the mailer followed state requirements and that staff trimmed mailing cost through parcel consolidation. He noted that the $55,600 figure does not include auditor staff time spent handling inquiries. Todd said he received an update from Senator Dawson indicating there is legislative consideration to simplify or eliminate the mailer.
The auditor said the mailer generated about 60 calls, with questions ranging from opinions about the mailer to requests for clarification. "So about 60 of those calls," he said. He added that the county is following state code for the mailer requirement while the legislature examines potential changes.
Todd also provided routine budget-calendar and certification updates: cities, counties and schools' budgets are due April 30; township and fire-district certification status was summarized; and staff are preparing spring amendment reviews and software upgrades (Dayforce, Tyler and iCube). He said the county is reviewing personnel appointments and noted one vacancy in his office where interviews are underway.
No board action was taken on the mailer at the meeting; the auditor characterized the item as an operational and statutory reporting requirement under review at the state level.
