Fulton officials mull sweeping budget cuts

Fulton County officials are considering major cuts to departments to balance the 2013 budget, which does not include a countywide tax rate increase. A plan presented by Finance Director Patrick O’Connor would cut most offices by 5 percent. Commissioner Robb Pitts has asked the county manager to justify continued funding for Communications, Intergovernmental Affairs, Economic Development and the chaplain’s office.

The proposed general fund budget — which is tentative and likely to go through major changes before final approval in January — totals $569.4 million in expenses, a 6 percent decrease from 2012. Expected revenues are $528 million, with $41.4 million coming out of reserves.