Neuhaus Touts Strong Finance, Flags Underlying Risks at Annual Address

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus presented a strong financial picture while flagging several risk factors to watch for during his annual State of the County address on April 10. Strong finances have enabled Orange County to invest in open space, emergency preparedness, and an overhaul of the information technology department—a county function that has come under increased scrutiny lately after allegations of a controversial contract. Under the helm of the economic development-minded executive, the county tax base has grown by almost 80 percent in the past ten years, a result of both increased property values and quantities. Fueled by years of higher-than-expected sales tax revenue, the Neuhaus administration has cut property taxes three times in a row: there was a slight cut in the 2022 budget, a $9.6 million cut the following year, and a $2 million drop this year....