3/13/14 - A mid-year state budget amendment could help fill the depleted coffers of the Livingston County Road Commission. A supplemental spending bill on its way to Governor Snyder for his signature this week includes a $215 million increase for roadwork. More than half the money will go to shovel-ready road projects, while an additional $100 million would be for road agencies so they still have maintenance money in the summer after significant snow plowing costs. That would mean an additional $800,000 for road maintenance in Livingston County and forestall having to cut money designated for future road repairs. The road commission has already spent about $800,000 more than last year for winter appropriations such as salt, fuel and overtime. But those costs could top out at $1.2 million once they factor in the expected potholes that will need to be repaired and other flooding-related costs. Without the infusion of state money, the road commission would be forced to adjust their budget as it is and cancel future repairs on county roads. (JK)
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