The City Council faced some awesome challenges going into this year’s budget preparation: Mostly because of the softening economy, council members needed to close an $11.3 million dollar budget gap (more than 12 percent of their budget) at a time when almost everyone wants more from city government. Fourteen public meetings, very professional staff support and some gutsy decision making all contributed to the last night’s passage of a responsible and balanced two-year budget. There will be 27 fewer city positions (but only one layoff), some major fee increases (ouch!), more resources for economic development (yippee!) and some capital projects will be delayed. The council made the tough decisions that will preserve vital services and keep the city financially strong. The vote was 4-1 (Settle no).
|
