As it prepares for its 2017-18 budget process, Hood River County finds itself dealing with an unexpected deficit in the general fund.  First year County Administrator Jeff Hecksel says they are dealing with a one-point-six to one-point-seven million dollar shortfall in the general fund as they prepare for the next fiscal year.  Hecksel says the reasons for the shortfall are varied, noting while property taxes provide a slight increase in revenue, they are being hurt in other areas, and expenses continue to increase.  Hecksel notes they also have capital maintenance needs the County will need to address.  He says department heads are working on proposals, and the County budget committee will begin its process in April.