Harsh cost-cutting could be in store for Lawrence County

NEW CASTLE, Pa.

Closing the county courthouse to save money will not be an option in 2010, and harsh cost-cutting measures may instead be in store for Lawrence County if the Pennsylvania State Legislature again delays for months before passing the annual state budget.

Lawrence County Commissioner Steve Craig said last week that commissioners have begun to prepare for the possibility of a late state budget by including a disclaimer in all contracts involving state money. The clause says payment will not be made if the state money stops.

Services that could be cut include medical-transportation assistance, foster care and some treatment services for juveniles.

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