Minutes 04/14/1981 - Laserfiche WebLink

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.~ i ~ TUESDAY APRIL 14, 1981 UNMET NEEDS AND FUTURE ISSUES Many requests and statements of need from the operating departments are being denied, or at best postponed, by this proposed budget. There are literally no enlargements or enhancements being recommended for the many programs and public services rendered our citizens. We are, in short, budgeting for a year of holding the line, in a continuing struggle with inflationary pressures. ( 4) intending to be negative or pessimistic, it must be pointed out that not, in the coming year, be: Operating as many neighborhood schools. Completing our commitment to the CBD Streetscape Project. Adding to existing reserves for thoroughfare construction, subdivision improvements, heavy equipment, or purchase of additional land for prison farm operations. Replacing much of our rolling stock, thereby increasing operating and maintenance costs. Adding to our park system nor appreciably improving the parks we now have. Resurfacing or improving many of our secondary streets. Adding to or enhancing our traffic signal system. Funding as many services for troubled youth. Making modifications to City Hall which would allow the public convenience of a drive-in facility for bill payment to the Treasurer. Proceeding with any of the improvements recommended by a citizens committee for the recreation areas at the City's reservoir. Without we will (1) (2) (3) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) SUMMARY These are specially interesting and challenging times for local elected officials, like you, and public administrators, like me. We must deal with the almost impossible push-pull from our citizens for constant or improved levels of service, without increased taxes/service charges. In inflationary periods this is, of course, unrealistic; but it faces the Council with some difficult policy decisions. The budget proposal for FY81-82 is thought to be both conservative and workable. We will not, as stated, be able to do all that could, or possible even should, be done. But, I am confident that on balance we will have a successful year. I will consider it, as before, an honor to serve you and our citizens in the process. After reviewing and discussing various items and/or segments within the proposed budget, Council informally directed that: 1. the sum of $10,000.00 be included in the proposed budget for anticipated expenses of the City-County Merger Study Committee; 2. at the end of the current fiscal year, the balance of unexpended funds appropriated for Thoroughfare Construction be added to a surplus reserve for this account; 3. consideration be given to providing for the complete funding of the anticipated cost of updating the City's Comprehensive Plan;