Message From County Administrator

Dear County Employees, 

As you all know, the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on the economy has been significant.  Public entities rely almost entirely on local, state, or federal revenue sources, primarily funded by a variety of taxes.  Our own Sonoma State University Economist, Dr. Eyler, Sonoma County Tourism (PDF 39-41), the state’s LAO, and Bay Area sales tax expert HdL are predicting reductions in these types of revenue sources, which CAO staff has identified to be in the range of 8-30%.  These reductions are estimated to result in a significant revenue shortfall for fiscal year 2020-21, as much as $50M.   

On Wednesday, June 10, 2020, the Board of Supervisors will discuss revenue projections and will be asked to approve the County FY 2020-21 Recommended Budget.  I want to make sure our employees know the recommended budget is not the final step in approving next year’s budget.  We realize projections could improve, we need to see the State’s final budget, and we need time to evaluate viable cost savings measures.  As a result, the Board will have a phased approach to finalizing the budget.  There will be more budget discussions at the end of July, and a final budget will be approved early September.  

These discussions and estimations will understandably create concerns and fear of layoffs.  On Wednesday, except for the Fairgrounds allocations, the Board will not take any action to reduce filled positions as of July 1, 2020.  Over these summer months, departments will continue to evaluate and plan, with the hope that we see positive state and federal news. We will continue to keep you informed as budget activities take place. 

Once again, thank you for all that you do to keep the County operating and supporting our community. 

Sincerely,
Sheryl

Sheryl Bratton
County Administrator