CONTACT INFORMATION:
14 South Fort Harrison Avenue
Clearwater, Fl 33756
Customer Service (727) 464-4000
E-mail: custsrv@pinellascounty.org

February 25, 2009

Pinellas County, Fla.— The Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners plans to cut 20 percent from its overall general fund for the next fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. This is necessary to meet the current challenges resulting from the national economic downturn and to plan for the continuation of reduced revenues in the county.

As they consider the reduction or elimination of public services and programs, commissioners will host three public budget meetings in March to solicit feedback from residents.

• Tuesday, March 3: Palm Harbor University High School, 1900 Omaha St., Palm Harbor

• Monday, March 23: Osceola High School, 9751 98th St. N., Seminole

• Thursday, March 26: Gibbs High School, 850 34th St. S., St. Petersburg

All of the meetings will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The sharp decrease in county revenue reflects the national economic crisis, local reductions in real estate values and property tax caps. Commissioners are currently involved in the process of setting priorities on the county services and programs. Knowing that it cannot continue to provide the current level of service, the commission wants to know the community’s priorities.

The feedback provided at the public meetings and through other public outreach efforts will be used in the decision making process as the budget is resized. The goal is to offer core services, which will be delivered in a consistent, predictable and reliable manner.

For more information, call (727) 464-3000 or go to www.pinellascounty.org/budget.

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Source: www.pinellascounty.org/utilities

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