With little

fanfare and no public comment, the Fayette County Commission Thursday

passed its operating budget for this year. The new total $66 million budget

started Tuesday, and is $1 million less than last year's budget.

"That's

almost unprecedented in government," said Chairman Greg Dunn.

General funds

account for $44.6 million, which is $319,000 less than last year's budget.

Dunn explained

the board also plans to lower the millage rate this year, but said the

school board's millage increase could have some residents playing slightly

higher taxes this year.

"We have

no control over the school board's budget," the chairman added.

In crafting

this year's budget, Dunn said the county added no new positions, but retained

its commitment to public safety. While the Sheriff's Department was seeking

34 new employees this year, Dunn said 80 employees had been added to the

department in the last two years. He said the total budget for the department

had increased by $1 million this year, while most other departments saw

their budgets decrease.

The county

has also embarked on a $50 million capital improvement program that will

be funded in the next several years.

Dunn complimented

the staff for their hard work on this year's budget and hopes to see it

continue.

"I'm amazed

the system has worked this well," he said.