The Washington County Board of Commissioners Sept. 13 approved a $70.3 million levy for 2006 which represents a 5.7 percent increase in the county levy over 2005. In setting the levy, commissioners decided on the maximum amount they will consider at the Dec. 13 meeting when the final county budget is passed. Commissioners may lower the levy but may not raise it from this point on. In an effort to encourage public involvement in the budget process, the board moved its meeting time to 5:15 p.m. instead of the usual 9 a.m., and hosted a county service open house previous to the meeting. The proposal is expected to keep the county at or near its 2005 status of having the lowest tax rate in the state. Proposed changes include the countyís share of a new metro-wide public safety radio system, funding for new election equipment making it easier for people with disabilities to vote, and funding new computers needed with the 2007 opening of service centers in Forest Lake and Cottage Grove. Replacement of a decade-old phone and voicemail system is also included. The proposal includes restoration of 30 of the 50 positions eliminated in the 2003-2004 budget reductions. The positions would be used to protect child welfare, reduce probation officer caseloads, increase sheriff personnel and enhance customer service at the countyís license centers.

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Forest Lake Times
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880 SW 15 St.
Forest Lake, MN 55025
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