Kirk Lays Out Budget Plan As Voters Consider Measure Z

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Sonora, CA — Anticipating tough budget times in the years ahead, District Three Tuolumne County Supervisor Anaiah Kirk has authored a new myMotherLode.com blog that lays out a new proposed budgetary strategy.

The level of cuts on the horizon will be dependent on whether Measure Z, a one-cent sales tax increase, passes on November 5.

Kirk previewed on Mother Lode Views last weekend that he was developing his own proposed budget (which would require a majority vote to approve), in the event that Measure Z fails. He also noted that some level of cuts will be needed, regardless of the fate of the tax measure. He explains the details in a new myMotherLode.com, entitled, “My budget strategy.”

Aspects it looks at includes fire consolidation, reducing employee benefits, merging departments, new parking fees at Pinecrest, and fee increases at Standard Park and within the Community Development Department.

He also describes changes he would like to see related to policies for accepting new grant dollars.

Kirk states, “This blog serves as my public declaration of where I stand. I refuse to allow our basic constitutional obligations for public safety to suffer from a ‘death by a thousand cuts’ during my tenure. I am committed to challenging the bureaucratic mindset that thinks otherwise and will not hesitate to advocate for changes in leadership if necessary.”

Further explaining, “If Measure Z passes, I will advocate for the implementation of two distinct budgets: a baseline budget that ensures all essential services, including fire and the Sheriff’s department, are fully funded, and a separate budget or line item specifically for Measure Z funds.”

Kirk’s full blog can be found here.