pages: CityCouncil/2007-12-04.pdf, 29
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2007-12-04 | 29 | expenses the other way is to not fund infrastructure, as was done in the past; Council decided that the City could no longer do that [not fund infrastructurel; tough choices will need to be made. Councilmember/Boaro Member/Commissioner Matarrese stated that he is not overly concerned with replenishing the reserves; the reserve was built partially on the PERS bonanza that occurred in the dot. . com boom. The Finance Director stated two years had a zero percent contribution; the money was allowed to flow back into the fund balance rather than setting the money aside to be used in the future for payments. Councilmember/Board Member/Commissioner Matarrese stated that his biggest concern is balancing the budget and delivering essential services; the big difference between 2002 and today is that there was not $10 billion a month of tax dollars flowing out of the economy at the federal level; tonight's discussion sets the stage for what will be a very tough fiscal environment for the foreseeable future; it is important to put on the brakes now. Mayor/Chair Johnson inquired how department heads cut budgets when there are already built in increases. The Finance Department responded salary and benefits are contracted; a position can be left vacant. Mayor/Chair Johnson stated department heads are being asked to cut budgets by 1.5%; however, budgets are increasing more than 1. .5% because of fixed increases. Councilmember/Board Member/Commissioner Matarrese stated Contracts are tied to salaries; the salaries are paid to people; the blunt end is either not filling the position or lay offs. Councilmember/Board Member/Commissioner deHaan inquired how long the City had the 25% reserve. The Finance Director responded Council was presented with a policy for adoption in late 1997 or early 1998. Councilmember/BoardMember/Commissioner Matarrese requested a copy of said policy. Vice Mayor/Board Member/Commissioner Tam stated Alameda is one of Special Joint Meeting Alameda City Council, Alameda Reuse 15 and Redevelopment Authority and Community Improvement Commission December 4, 2007 | CityCouncil/2007-12-04.pdf |