COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Local governments are getting ready to tighten the belt as there are expected to be some serious funding issues in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Stay Home, Stay Safe Executive Order which was issued by Governor Whitmer on March 23 shut down the entire state in an effort to prevent the spread of the virus. It also is expected to have a big impact on the amount of money allocated to local governments from the state for the rest of this year and perhaps into 2021.
Branch County Administrator Bud Norman went over several scenarios with the Branch County Board of Commissioners during their work session on Thursday.
One involved the possible furloughing of employees.
Norman said another proposal calls for a hiring freeze as well as a freeze on capital expenditures.
Key positions such as at Branch County 911 would still be funded if there was an opening.
Commission Chair Ted Gordon said it looked like they were back to 2008 in the days after the Great Recession. While it took almost 18 months for local governments to recover from that event, it’s hoped the recovery from the coronavirus pandemic will not take that long.
Commissioners are expected to take some sort of formal action during next Tuesday’s regular meeting.
