Washoe County Manager John Slaughter’s “State of the County” address was a pretty positive one, but he cautions there are still challenges, and they are taking a conservative and careful approach to the budget.  Washoe County’s general fund spending will grow only one percent this next fiscal year, reflecting that conservative approach, and the county will end the year with a 12.4% ending balance, highest in the region.  County Manager John Slaughter says they do have a legislative priority for the next session, after 30 years he says it’s time for a comprehensive review of legislation that guides regional planning. The county is also backing the federal public lands bill to aid economic development, conservation and recreation opportunities.