Poochigian on Safety Tax
Consolidating services, cutting costs, and eliminating wasteful spending are ways to increase the amount of money in the county budget.
Recognizing that some programs have little room to cut, I believe it is essential to find ways to grow the economy and provide vital services – without raising taxes. We must implement policies that foster a healthy, vibrant private sector economy.
Business is the backbone of our economy, and our success depends on expanding existing businesses, attracting new businesses to Fresno County, and reducing the regulatory
burdens which will encourage growth and increase our tax base.
It is the responsibility of county supervisors to balance the budget, live within our means, and spend the taxpayers’ dollars wisely, while providing quality, efficient services to the residents of Fresno County. Decisions must be made based on sound economic and budgeting principles. Each department of county government must play a role in solving our budget shortfall. Top to bottom review is important. A budget
should be thought about every day and not just once a year.
County government is charged with the responsibility of providing an array of programs and services funded by higher levels of government. During difficult times, we should
carefully examine and keep a watchful eye on unfunded mandated programs, programs which require matching funds, and “realignment” programs that may put an unreasonable
financial burden on our county. Like businesses and families, our county government should institutionalize a better system that provides for a prudent reserve to carry us through difficult times.
I would bring both a business and common sense approach to the budgeting process. I will not shy away from asking tough questions and making tough decisions. Budget decisions must be made that are affordable, sustainable, and will get Fresno County back
on track.