pages: CityCouncil/2008-10-21.pdf, 4
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CityCouncil | 2008-10-21 | 4 | Mayor Johnson stated issues should be reviewed with more of an open mind; Council has been clear on minimizing public service cuts as much as possible; many cities utilize retirees to supplement public safety forces the Fire Dispatch Center was contracted out years agoi the Police Chief provided a brief analysis on the matter, but numbers were not provided. The City Manager stated that the issue was noted as something to consider in the future because more analysis is needed. Mayor Johnson stated the issue should be reviewed if there is a possibility to save money and provide the same service; every issue should have an associated dollar amount. The City Manager stated that staff is working to ensure that costs are identified in future studies; structural changes can be reviewed; the amount needed to balance the [2009-2010] budget is substantial. Mayor Johnson stated Council needs to know the exact amount of money that would be saved by eliminating positions, including retirement benefit costs. Vice Mayor Tam stated the City does so much with so little; the City's public utility is doing very well; fifty percent of the Assistant City Manager's time is charged to Alameda Point Mastick Senior Center is a model for the region; the Police and Fire Departments are incredible; it is important to see whether structural changes would have an impact on the General Fund; that she is not sure whether all Public Works' programs are charged to the General Fund; questioned whether funding is received for tree trimming and sidewalk repair; stated clear assessments need to be made regarding contracting out public safety services to Alameda County; the City is not facing easy choices. Councilmember Gilmore stated Council is discussing 2009-2010 budget cuts now; economic advisers do not see the financial situation getting better for a few years; she does not want the City to become another Vallejo. Councilmember Matarrese stated people do not want to put a price tag on public safety services or the Mastick Senior Center, but the services cost money; the City's core missions and need to be reviewed. Councilmember deHaan stated the City's financial situation developed over several years; corrections need to be made now to avoid further impacts. Regular Meeting 4 Alameda City Council October 21, 2008 | CityCouncil/2008-10-21.pdf |