NEWPORT-The Finance Committee of the Cocke County Legislative Body plans on getting an early start on the 2009-10 fiscal year budget. Committee members had previously expressed interest in meeting with department heads earlier in the year to address budget concerns. During Monday's regular meeting, members reaffirmed that desire. "If we can meet before hand, I think it would be a good thing," said Committee Chairman Clay Blazer. "I knew it was something you wanted to do and I thought we would start next month," added Finance Director Anne Williams. Committee member Norman Smith suggested the Committee first meet with the Highway Department at the February meeting and then meet with the Sheriff's Department in March. "I will bring you up-to-date spending figures so you can see where we are," added Williams. Smith inquired whether lower fuel costs are helping the county. Williams said the lower costs are a help but also pointed out the county's sales tax revenues are down. "Countywide, through November, our sales tax figures are down about 3.3 percent," said Williams. "But, you have to understand, that includes the city of Newport. It probably has more impact on them than it does the county." Williams said figures for December sales tax revenues are expected soon. In other business Monday, the committee approved budget transfers for travel and the Sheriff's Department.