The Henry County Commission formally signed the 2022 budget at 9:30 a.m., January 4. The general revenue funds were significantly lower than last year's, however, the county was able to roll out a zero-levy this year. Last year's general revenue funds stood at $5.1 million, while this year's is about $3.9 million – the county only spent $3.5 million of their $5.1 million last year, though. “It looks good,” said Presiding Commissioner Jim Stone.
Some of the major expenses for the county were the court house renovation (of which about $35,000 is still owed for December's work; the renovation is complete, however), and the NE 301 Bridge, which came in at about $710,000. Much of the money for the bridge was paid for out of the gas tax (the county was responsible for a 20% soft match of the funds). Also, recall that the county picked up Benton County's circuit court, but expenses for Henry County as far as the non-Henry County circuit courts (and juvenile department) are reimbursed. Henry County does foot the initial costs for these which has to be included in the budget. Another factor in the budget is the expenses for the trial concerning Gary Michael. The county prepared for the expense last year, however, it has again been pushed back. The new projected date for the trial will be in 2023.
Commissioner Dale Lawler made a motion to accept the budget, followed by a second from Commission Rick Fosnow. It was unanimously approved and signed.
