The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approved a $5.4 billion proposed budget, and more than $12 million will be allocated for security enhancements following the December 2 terrorist attack at the Inland Regional Center. The 2016-17 recommended budget, approved Tuesday, will be back before the board June 28 for adoption. It allocates $10.2 million for security upgrades, plus $2 million for a security assessment at all county buildings. The county’s $2.9 billion general fund has $558.3 million that is discretionary, and more than $407 million in reserves. Human Services constitutes the biggest chunk of the county budget at $1.9 billion, with an increase of $63.5 million in operating expenses.
Staffing expenses in the Human Services group increased by $11.2 million, due to the addition of 13 positions and increased costs associated with negotiated employee salary and benefits changes.
The county’s capital improvement program budget of $253.2 million is attributed to new construction projects. Additionally, $57.7 million in discretionary general funding is being used for various projects including the ongoing upgrade of the 800 MHz emergency radio communications system and upgrades at various sheriff’s facilities and the jail ward at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.
One-time reserve contributions of $62.8 million include $9.5 million for a bridge replacement project on National Trails Highway in the High Desert ($5 million) and a retrofit of the Lake Gregory Dam ($4.5 million).
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY APPROVES A $5.4 BILLION BUDGET
