STOCKTON — County parks, the Micke Grove Zoo, future airport improvements, and various capital projects are benefitting from San Joaquin County’s fiscal management.

The Board of Supervisors on Tuesday  transferred fiscal year one-time funds in keeping with their adopted Strategic Priorities, which support healthy communities, increasing activities for family and youth, and supporting economic development for the County.

 The Board also set aside extra money in reserves to prepare for potential economic changes.

 “The Board shares the community’s interest in providing children and families with more activities in our community,” commented Board Chair Paul Canepa. 

“The new funds for parks and the Micke Grove Zoo will support facilities improvements and future planning. We also recognize the importance of economic development in creating well-paying jobs for San Joaquin County residents. These investments reflect our dedication to achieving those shared goals.”

 As of July 1, 2024, the General Fund balance was $83.3 million. 

After a $1.9 million allocation for the Sheriff’s airplane, the adjusted available balance is $81.3 million.

Fund transfers adopted by the Board total $81.3 million, including transfers to various reserve and capital outlay funds.

 In 2023-2024, General Fund departments spent $1.29 billion, with $754.6 million in revenue, resulting in a $530.6 million Net County Cost — $57.7 million under budget.

 Savings came from vacant positions and lower than planned expenses. Chair Canepa praised the County Administrator, Auditor, Assessor, and Tax Collector for managing tax resources effectively. “Their conservative estimates allow us to adjust based on last year’s revenue. 

Since this is one-time money, we’re focusing on one-time costs and increasing reserves to prepare for unexpected expenses or economic changes  community programs and provides