Belmont County commissioners seem to be adopting a leaner, cleaner philosophy of government.
During recent meetings, commissioners have taken steps to save taxpayers money by making county operations more efficient. They also have established a county planning commission that should aid in the process.
A priority during the coming year will be consolidation of county facilities, commissioners have stressed. That should result in lower operating costs for some county agencies - and in better service in some respects.
"Reducing the budget is not just about cuts," Commission President Ginny Favede commented. "It's about making sure that the money we are spending is spent productively and wisely."
Commissioners already have engaged in serious spending cuts. More may be necessary. But Favede is right that improving efficiency can save taxpayers money while at the least avoiding reductions in service - and at best improving it.
If that means spending a few dollars to renovate some county-owned buildings, the money will be well spent in the long run. Streamlining government always is a good idea. In the current economic climate, it is a necessity, as commissioners recognize.