Losses to the Agricultural Commissioners Office could include six inspectors, clerical staff and 15 insect detection specialists.With fewer inspectors, farmers would have to wait longer for pesticide permits and face a higher risk of pest infestations that can kill crops.Monitoring for pesticide applications would also be cut back and the Camarillo ag office would be closed.County Clerk Phil Schmit said absentee balloting costs his department more money than people going to the polls do and voting by mail might be eliminated.A Human Services Agency program that provides hot meals to 500 seniors would be eliminated and services for veterans and the homeless would be reduced by three-quarters.Supervisors will have a month to consider the cuts before they officially make budget decisions.
Supervisors: Ag, senior, voting and other services on budget cut line
May 19, 2004
Santa Paula News
Santa Clara River Valley ranchers will be among the big losers if the County of Ventura is forced to cut its budget including that of the Agricultural Commission staff.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesSanta Clara River Valley ranchers will be among the big losers if the County of Ventura is forced to cut its budget including that of the Agricultural Commission staff.County managers told the Board of Supervisors at the May 6 meeting that services ranging from senior programs to absentee voting; fees might also be raised to help overcome the projected $46-million budget shortfall.County Executive Officer Johnny Johnston told supervisors that although the state could withhold about $17-million, other personnel costs - including spiraling pension expenses - have contributed to the fiscal crisis.Layoff notices have already been issued to about 500 employees, half of what is called for, but the other positions are now vacant.The Board of Supervisors will consider the layoffs until they approve the cuts outlined by department heads in late June.Agricultural Commissioner Earl McPhail told supervisors he might have to cut 24 of 64 positions, a move that would cause dramatic impacts on growers.Agriculture is a billion-dollar-plus business in Ventura County and the highest revenue producer.
