pages: CityCouncil/2008-07-15.pdf, 5
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CityCouncil | 2008-07-15 | 5 | Mayor Johnson inquired whether the survey addressed cuts to pay for unfunded liabilities, to which Mr. Below responded in the negative. Councilmember Gilmore stated reactions were strong regarding cuts to public safety and paramedic services; said services are the most expensive to provide. Mr. Below stated opposition to public safety cuts is common. Councilmember Gilmore stated everybody likes the level of City services, particularly public safety, but nobody wants to figure out a way to pay for said service. Mayor Johnson stated closing all libraries would not pay for what is needed to start paying unfunded public safety retiree benefits; Council needs to do a much better job of educating the public. Councilmember Matarrese inquired what was the exact question asked regarding Police and Fire salaries and benefits. Mr. Below responded the question was "The City of Alameda currently has a budget shortfall of $5 million. If additional revenues are not found, the City may have to make cuts in existing City Services. With this in mind, I am going to mention some of the services the City provides its residents. After you have heard each one, please tell me whether you think large cuts should be made to that service in order to balance the budget, or just some cuts should be made, or no cuts at all should be made to that service to balance the City budget. Councilmember Matarrese stated that retiree benefits should have been separated out. Mr. Below continued the presentation. Councilmember deHaan inquired whether the public understands the ramifications [ if the proposed tax does not pass]. Mr. Below responded generally no; stated more detail could have been given if the proposed real property transfer tax was the only issue surveyed. Vice Mayor Tam stated that she sees very little elasticity within the margin of error by going from a $5.40 tax rate to $12.00 or $15.00. Mr. Below concurred with Vice Mayor Tam; stated that he could not Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 5 July 15, 2008 | CityCouncil/2008-07-15.pdf |