Washington County officials have given final approval to a budget that's roughly 17% higher than last year's, down from a September proposal with a 25% increase.
The $11.6 million plan does not call for eliminating any current county jobs, but would cut several vacant positions.
Officials are still trying to address the county's looming $8 million debt due at the end of the month, created by poor accounting practices in recent years.
County Manager Renée Gray said 18 towns have agreed to voluntarily pay their portion of the debt, roughly $3.5 million, and others are considering the option. And county officials said they plan to ask creditors to extend the maturity date on the loan to March.
