Lake County has an important responsibility to its citizens to account for public funds correctly, manage County finances wisely and plan for adequate funding of services desired by the public. With the change of federal and state policies toward local government and the rate of growth in the area, budgeting a cash reserve of two months’ average operating cost is prudent. This is to ensure sufficient revenues to fund the first two months of the next fiscal year.

Sound fiscal policies that are realistic and consistent provide useful guidance for the long-term programming of services and facilities. They provide a framework under which budget and tax decisions should be made.

For more information, call the Office of Budget at (352) 343-9452.