Huntington County department heads have been asked by the Huntington County Council to reduce their 2010 budgets by seven percent.

The request was made during the County Council meeting on Monday, Feb. 22.

After receiving certified tax rates in early February, Huntington County Auditor Kathy Juillerat told Council members she expects a $945,000 shortfall in the county's general fund. The deficit comes as a result of tax cap losses, collection rates and appeals, Juillerat says.

The Cumulative Courthouse fund, the Cumulative Bridge fund, reassessment fund and the Health Department will also have budget deficits, she says.

Department heads had until Friday, Feb. 26, to submit revised budgets.

The Huntington County Council will discuss the cuts at its next meeting on Monday, March 22.