CAPE COUNTY CONTINUES TO FARE WELL ON FINANCES

Taxpayers of Cape Girardeau County have long prided themselves on the county's fiscal good health. Unlike many counties across the state, Cape Girardeau County has remained fiscally responsible and financially solvent. In a time of dwindling state and federal funds, this has been no easy task.

Local officials deserve commendation for their continued prudence in overseeing county dollars. In the coming year, rising costs and shrinking dollars will continue to tax their money-managing skills.

The County Commission this week approved a $5.4 million budget, which reflects a 4.4 percent increase in both revenues and expenses.

But while county revenues remain solid, Presiding Commissioner Gene Huckstep tempered the good news with a warning. This perpetual caution has proved well-advised for the county. Keeping a close watch on possible developments has kept local officials at the forefront of money-saving ideas.

Flat sales tax growth has caused the county particular worry, along with increasing costs in county government. Three areas of particular concern include rising costs to operate the criminal justice system; a growing trend of state and federal governments to mandate local programs without providing money; and increasing costs for maintaining county roads and bridges.

The bulk of Cape County revenues come from the half-cent sales tax, which generates about $3 million. Another $1.12 million will come from fees and receipts, and a balance of $1.27 million from last year.

Although revenues have dwindled, Cape County will retain its zero general-revenue property tax levy for 1991 - a feat few counties manage. Wise money supervision continues to pay off for county taxpayers.

Part of the secret of our county's success is that local officials have remained accessible and accountable. They have scrimped and saved and planned - running the county like a successful business. The county's capital trust account, established eight years ago to fund major capital improvements and emergencies, has grown to just over $2.1 million.

Unlike major corporations, county officials receive no bonuses for fiscal responsibility. They merely earn the satisfaction of a job well done. The bonus taxpayers receive is a zero general revenue property tax. When it comes to county finances, Cape Girardeau County can compare with the best of them thanks to leaders who are adept money managers.