Washoe County’s budget freezes vacancies in shortfall

RENO -- Washoe County commissioners have approved a budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1 that freezes vacant positions and uses one-time contributions from internal accounts to meet a $28 million shortfall.

Officials say about 213 positions will not be filled to save on salary and benefits. Along with other reductions, the moves will save about $17 million.

Officials also said insurance and risk management claims have been less than projected, allowing the transfer of $10 million to the general fund.

A continued decline in tax revenues and added costs could pose problems later in the fiscal year, officials said.