Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the County Finance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Berks County officials warn state budget impasse and federal shutdown are straining county finances
Summary
Treasurer Mitch Darkwort reported county cash balances and Controller Joe Ruttero read a statement from the Pennsylvania State Association of County Controllers warning that a nearly four-month state budget delay is forcing counties to cut services, delay payments and consider layoffs.
Berks County Treasurer Mitch Darkwort and Controller Joe Ruttero told commissioners on Oct. 23 that the extended state budget impasse — paired with a federal shutdown — is putting mounting pressure on county finances.
Darkwort reported an opening balance of $247,825,055.07, a balance to clear of $4,492,882.16 and a resulting available balance of $243,332,172.91.
Controller Joe Ruttero read a press release from the Pennsylvania State Association of County Controllers outlining the statewide effects of the ongoing budget delay. "Counties are being forced to cut services, delay payments, and consider staff layoffs," Ruttero read. He said counties are rapidly depleting reserve funds, incurring steep interest costs and, in some cases, have begun layoffs or are researching borrowing options to maintain essential services.
Ruttero and other commissioners urged state lawmakers in Harrisburg to resolve the impasse and consider reforms to reduce future delays. Commissioners noted that some counties have already implemented hiring and spending freezes and that the cost will ultimately be borne by local taxpayers if the delay continues.
Commissioner Michael Rivera highlighted local consequences and encouraged residents to contact state and federal legislators. Another commissioner noted that York County had announced it would hold certain pass-through funds in escrow until the state budget is passed.
