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Resident criticizes Northampton County economic development spending and calls for budget guidance
Summary
A local resident told commissioners the county's budget process lacks clear guidance, questioned the return on investment for the Economic Development Office and urged a 10% operating cut; the county manager and commissioners responded that some economic development work must remain confidential while audits and budget planning move forward.
At the podium, Alan Tashima urged the Board of Commissioners to give clearer budget guidance and criticized the county's economic development office, saying the county had not shown a sufficient return on investment and describing specific line items he questioned.
Tashima said the economic development budget previously totaled about $500,000 and singled out a $25,000 contract awarded to an out-of-state consultant to prepare a business education plan. He argued the county's operating budget is "over bloated" and urged a 10% cut in operating expenses, saying county leadership should provide prescriptive guidance to the county manager on priorities.
County officials responded that economic development often requires confidentiality while recruitment and site-preparation work proceed and that many activities are not publicized to avoid jeopardizing potential projects. County Manager Julian Phillips said the finance numbers are available in independent audit reports and rejected a claim of a "slush fund," telling the meeting, "We do not have a slush fund."
The manager said an audit meeting with auditors is underway and that the county will convene a budget/strategic planning session in January or February so commissioners can set goals and priorities that will guide the budget message.
No budget cuts or program eliminations were adopted at the meeting; the board set a timeline for budget planning and audit completion.
