Faced with state cuts, governments urged to consolidate

Jan. 29, 2011, Newark Advocate

BY JESSICA ALAIMO

CentralOhio.com

NEWARK — Ohio sends millions to government agencies in Licking County each year for both day-to-day operations and special projects. However, as lawmakers struggle to close an $8 billion budget deficit, the future of subsidies to local schools, counties and cities is up in the air.

This year, legislators might push consolidation efforts, urging governments to share services with their neighbors.

Licking County agencies received $298.3 million from the state in fiscal year 2010 to run schools and local government services. In addition, $27.8 million in state funds was used for capital expenses, according to the state’s Legislative Service Commission.

No one is sure how this number will change as Ohio lawmakers scramble to mend the budget gap.