Highlights from Hamilton County's $2.06 billion proposed budget:

        The budget funds 6,249 positions and gives county employees an average salary increase of 3 percent. Revenue:

        • A Metropolitan Sewer District rate increase of 6 percent.

        • Sales tax revenue came in at 3.6 percent below last year. The county had been projecting a 3 percent increase.

        • Revenues are $514,000 higher than expenses in the $243.7 million general fund budget.

        • The real estate transfer tax increases from 1.5 mills to 3 mills, which is expected to generate $8 million total.

        • Building permit fees rise by 30 percent — about a $115 increase for residents building a single-family home.

        • Zoning fees rise by 40 percent.

        • Revenues for boarding federal prisoners are sliding because the federal government is reimbursing at a rate less than cost.

        Expenditures:

        • County Administrator Dave Krings has set aside $500,000 to hire management efficiency consultants.

        • County facilities has $2.4 million set aside to maintain buildings.

        • More than $1.5 million will be spent on technology, including updating the file server, replacing computer work stations and buying printers for the recorder's office. Other projects include merging all facilities management databases into one information system and setting up a computer training lab at sheriff's patrol headquarters.

        • More than $18 million in new capital improvement projects and $515 million in previously approved projects.

Fingers pointed on police lawsuit
Jurors walk where girl was killed in 1963
World War II hero finally receives his due
Hate crime stabbing suspects caught
Hamilton Co. cuts spending
Some sources of income and how county intends to spend
Children's to expand psychiatric treatment
PULFER: 15,000 toys to deliver
Shooter abused her earlier, restaurant victim says
'Average Joe' pleads guilty to robbery
Care training fills two needs
Good News: Food donations sought
Hamilton County has many ideas
Health staff here review CDC's smallpox response
Local Digest
Mason to vote on top honchos
Butler County forced to slash help for working poor
Congrats
Do-it-yourself pottery makes unique gift
Gasoline facilities on high alert
Ky. high court refuses to hear Kenton tax hike appeal
Microsoft deal may benefit Ky. schools
Modified Mardi Gras possible in 2002
Turfway tries comeback
Aid centers' demand up, supplies low
Where you can help
GOP official's wife enters race
Kentucky Digest
Second man pleads guilty in videotaped sex assault