pages: CityCouncil/2009-02-07.pdf, 2
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CityCouncil | 2009-02-07 | 2 | The Interim Finance Director stated there are several ways to stop the error from occurring; human beings make errors; the financial system is being redone to prevent re-keying in the budget. Mayor Johnson inquired whether assumptions about retirements are factored into the budget and whether said procedure is the normal way to operate. The Interim Finance Director responded that she is addressing how to solve the math error; stated the other issue is how to plan staff reductions; planning for the next budget started really early; staffing decisions will be made well in advance. Mayor Johnson inquired what is the normal budget development process for factoring in staffing levels. The Interim Finance Director responded a position would have to be cut to compensate if retirement does not happen; stated departments need to have a contingency plan to prevent the same situation. Mayor Johnson suggested funding for the position be included in the budget until the person retires to prevent departments from overspending. The Interim Finance Director outlined how service levels would be reviewed for the next fiscal year budget. Mayor Johnson stated it sounds like the City has a fairly archaic finance system; good work is being done to improve things questioned what can be done to ensure that the City does not go backwards again. The Interim Finance Director provided a brief explanation of how the budget is being changed to make it a useful management tool. Mayor Johnson stated the Council needs to know what the issues are and needs to set priorities; the City cannot continue to be run the same way; greater emphasis on analysis is needed; the budget should be each manager's number one priority; a lot more emphasis on fiscal matters is needed; a lot of catch up is being done. Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether 103 is the appropriate number of funds for a city of Alameda's size; stated an item for the issue bin should be whether the City would realize clarity and efficiency by consolidating accounts. The Interim Finance Director responded some funds could be Special Meeting Alameda City Council 2 February 7, 2009 | CityCouncil/2009-02-07.pdf |