Dear Editor,

The DuPage County Board has approved a Budget for 2006-7 of approximately $470,000,000.  It reflects many of the values of most voters whether Democrat, Independent, and Republican.  However this budget lacks the lowest property taxes possible (the property tax was increased by $2,500,000 in each of the last two years) and the continuation of the existing level of services to those in need (programs and services have been reduced in several areas, from the Sheriff’s Department to the Convalescent Center).   There is almost universal agreement, among those who follow the DuPage County budget issues, that it is stressed and many departments are cutting services.  I suggest the following: 

1. Reduce the pay of County Board members and reduce the number of County Board members.  The Budget indicates that an estimated $2,000,000+ has been appropriated for the County Board.  The budget would save more than $800,000 per year if the County Board members pay was is changed from $48,620 to $30,000, their number is changed from 18 to 12, and the associated retirement/health benefits are reduced.
2. A carefully planned combining of county departments and county committees could save more than $1,000,000.   Expenditures would be “grouped” and each “group” would be placed under the supervision of a department head who would be responsible to a County Board Committee.
3. Modification of environmental management practices could save more than an estimated $1,000,000 per year.
4. The County should review its space needs and the capital improvement program to identify savings.  An estimated $1,300,000 could be saved per year.

These “savings” would exceed $4,000,000 per year after fully implemented.  They are recommendations that would reduce the pressure to increase the property tax or provide funds for those in need.  I believe the citizens of DuPage County would favor the consideration of these changes.    

Sincerely, 
 

Richard L. Dunn
630-605-1019