Centre County Leaders are struggling with the budget. They say they're doing their best to avoid layoffs. Unlike many other counties, Centre County has enjoyed a budget surplus. The Centre County Commissioners say increasing costs are draining the reserve funds. Now, some county employees won't be seeing the same level of salary increases.

Chris Exarchos, Centre County Commissioner, says, "Essentially this past year, the net effect was a six percent increase overall for salaries. I don't think were in a position to go as high as 6 percent, but I don't think its going to be zero." The new prison, the multi-million dollar courthouse renovations, and increased health expenses have dipped into the county's surplus.