Large Turnout Expected at MontCo Budget Hearing

Momentarily overshadowed Tuesday by the arrest of Montgomery County Commissioner James Matthews, the county's proposed 2012 budget will retake the spotlight Wednesday morning as defenders of threatened programs and services are expected to turn out in force for a public hearing.

The budget hearing is the key item on the Board of Commissioners agenda for its 10:00am meeting, the second to last meeting scheduled for the current Board and the last before a final budget must be approved on Dec. 21.

Expecting a crowd, the county has relocated the meeting from its usual venue on the 8th floor of One Montgomery Plaza to Courtroom A at the Montgomery County Courthouse. Space (and parking in the courthouse area) may still prove to be inadequate. 

Delegations from Montgomery County Community College, the borough of Norristown, and various outdoor enthusiast groups are among those expected to voice opposition to proposed cuts to the county parks department, library system, and numerous other areas.

Attendees will also have to proceed through the metal detectors at courthouse security checkpoints. Arrive early and be prepared for lines.