BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — This week, the Kern County Board of Supervisors will dive into discussions over the proposed budget for the next fiscal year, detailing hits each department could be taking.
According to a letter from County Administrative Officer Ryan Alsop the budget will see an increase of a little more than $100 million from the current fiscal year. The majority of that increase is thanks to federal aid to help with the coronavirus.
The budget shows significant losses to the library system, details the lack of manpower within the district attorney's office, and also shows cuts to the Kern County Fire Department including limited station closures and other ways to save $6.5 million annually.
After Tuesday's discussion, a public meeting will be held in August to further discuss the budget. Supervisors will consider approving what's being called the "last best and final offer" to the Kern County Firefighters Union.
After years of negotiations, the sides agreed to an official impasse last year after not being able to agree on a contract.
The offer would save the county $3.4 million dollars if approved.
You can watch the county board meetings Tuesday here.
