CARMEL- The Putman County legislature’s budget committee has voted to advance County Executive Kevin Byrne’s 2024 budget proposal, with a few minor changes.
“The budget my administration presented is one that represents a concerted effort to better control and prioritize county spending, lower the property tax rate, and reduce the overall tax burden, all with no new borrowing,” said Byrne. “I thank Chairman Jonke and appreciate the legislature’s efforts toward demonstrating fiscal conservatism and discipline. As I’ve stated numerous times, no savings is too large or too small for our county to take advantage of.”
Legislators did make a few tweaks to Byrne’s proposal, including the elimination of $500,000 in program funding and the addition of a position in the sheriff’s office. The modified proposal further reduces the proposed tax rate to 2.85 percent, an 8 percent reduction from the 2023 property tax rate of 3.12 percent and still the lowest property tax rate in 15 years.
Another notable feature of the county executive’s spending plan is the recommendation to eliminate the local portion of sales tax on clothing and footwear under $110. The budget committee supported the change, which continues forward in the draft plan.
“I promised residents that we’d take advantage of every opportunity presented to us,” said Byrne. “We will continue to seize opportunities that provide for a more affordable, accountable, and accessible county government that serves us all. This budget, as currently being presented, continues to deliver on that promise.”
With several more legislative meetings scheduled, lawmakers must work to adopt a final agreement before November 1.
