Southern Illinoisan in Carbondale, Illinois

Perry County eyes 15 percent budget cuts may hit jobs

Perry County government offices face a 15 percent budget reduction by Aug. 3, with potential layoffs. County Engineer Doug Bishop proposed trimming one position and delaying equipment purchases to save $54,672, while Circuit Clerk Danny Wildermuth plans layoffs in his office and a fee increase raises about $30,000 annually. The board also approved moving about $50,000 in old bond fees to the county treasury, and discussed reassessing property values, possible outside help, and a four year contract with the Sheriff’s Department granting raises, amid fears of borrowing limits and tax timing.