Deficit looms in Gwinnett despite cuts

LAWRENCEVILLE - The Gwinnett County Commission approved a 2011 budget that cuts funding for libraries and social services but still doesn't balance spending with falling tax collections.

The budget approved Tuesday cuts library spending by $2.8 million and slashes subsidies for some service agencies.

But commissioners warn more cuts are coming, as the county's $449 million budget begins the year $18 million in the hole.

Commissioner Shirley Lasseter warned Tuesday's move was ``the first in a series of decisions that will determine the shape and future of Gwinnett County for decades to come.''