James City County's budget problems may mean that some county services and programs are cut, according to the Daily Press.

Reducting operation costs for the library, parks and swimming pools are being examined as the county faces major budget issues.

Homeowners should be aware of these problems because a typical solution is to raise property taxes, but also because reduction in community services can also hurt property values. It is a difficult situation that many Virginia localities are facing. Hopefully County officials and residents can work together to find solutions that James City County residents are comfortable with.

"How bad is James City County's budget outlook for the next few years?

Residents might have to deal with less county money for schools and libraries. Reductions in, or even elimination of, long relied-upon services like leaf collection, parks and swimming pools might also have to be stomached.

It's that or face tax and fee hikes, says County Administrator Sandy Wanner. In the past two fiscal years, James City has significantly reduced operating costs and outlays to agencies it supports. Nearly 36 positions have been eliminated by attrition and county operating costs have been reduced by about $4.4 million.

Still, he insists that more cuts are necessary.

On Tuesday, Wanner laid out 23 possible areas to further cut county spending. Topping the list was a reduced contribution to the school system James City shares with Williamsburg. Funding to outside agencies, already down a total of $640,000 over the past two years, could be slashed again, he said. Other proposals include cutting library funding and less spending on capital projects. Remaining suggested cuts are to county services, including reduced park hours and limiting county swimming pool hours or not opening them at all. Convenience center hours could also be cut, along with reductions to animal control and community center operations."

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