SARASOTA COUNTY, Fla. (SNN TV) – How should Sarasota County spend the money meant to help people struggling in life?
Sarasota County commissioners are facing some tough decisions when it comes to funding nonprofits that provide human services in the county. The nonprofits provide everything from teen counseling to mental health support for veterans.
Commissioner Mike Moran has put together put together his own funding recommendations for the 27 programs, but he’s also drawing some criticism for his choices. A local veteran said the funding will slight veterans in favor of youth programs like Teen Court.
But Moran said in the last commission meeting that changes were necessary to get the most benefit out of taxpayer money.
“If it’s worth funding, fund it hard,” said Moran. “Don’t kind of fund it. Don’t limp in. If you are believing in the concept in giving taxpayer dollars to get a rational nexus return on your money, fund it hard.”
Moran described previous funding as “spreading peanut butter” by giving smaller amounts of money to many organizations.
If you have concerns about the way your tax dollars will be spent, contact your county commissioner. Discussions about funding these organizations will be revisited at their next meeting on Tuesday.