COUNTY BUDGET TO GROW NEXT YEAR

Cape Girardeau County government's budget for general operations in 1998 is expected to grow 3 percent, to nearly $8.38 million, while income next year will increase an anticipated 7 percent, to $9.036 million.

The figures are contained in a 1998 county budget proposal prepared by Cape Girardeau County Auditor Weldon Macke.

Macke will present the budget to the County Commission Thursday. Commissioners will review it and make any necessary changes before adopting it.

The increase in income is due to a combination of factors, said Macke.

"Sales tax goes up a little bit, we collect a little more for fees due to some changes in statutes, and there may have been a little bit of under-estimating to start with," Macke said.

The county's capital improvement budget as of Nov. 31 contained more than $6 million. Of that, $4 million is set aside as an emergency fund the county has built up over the years.

The money could also be used if the county decides to build an expansion to the jail. A $4.5 million expansion is being considered.

"We could use our own money to build the jail," Macke said. But the county might find it more economical to borrow money if the project proceeds.

The road and bridge budget for 1998 is estimated at $1.98 million, a 5 percent increase over the 1997 budget.

County salaries are expected to increase about 3.5 percent.

The budget process began last summer with departments submitting budget requests. A process of discussion and revision has taken place this fall to reach the proposed 1998 budget.