March 7, 2005

City Manager Gary O'Connell made his formal budget recommendations to the City Councilors on Monday, March 7th.

One major item proposed was a four penny drop in real estate tax. "The largest real estate tax rate cut in over a quarter of a century or longer is being proposed, a 4 cent reduction," said O'Connell.

While citizens gave that proposal rave reviews they weren't enthusiastic about the city's 2.1 million dollar departmental reduction.

"City wide over 14 positions have been cut in the city managers budget proposal. This is saved over $655,000 for city tax payers. This was done in a way to have the least impact on the public yet reduce cost," said O'Connell.

O'Connell said another way to reduce the budget would be to stop doing commercial garbage pick-ups.

"I'd also like to talk about Meadow Creek parkway tonight some," said a citizen.

It's been in the works for decades and finally the council is moving forward with the Meadowcreek Parkway.

City Council discussed electing a steering committee to regulate the major road projects included with the Meadowcreek Parkway interchange. Although not everyone approves the construction. "This is a road that would cut through our central park, it would actually increase traffic in the city, the city's own study showed that," said a citizen.

The public can have their say too. A community budget forum will be held on Saturday, March 12th at 10:00am at Tonsler Park.

By April 12th the city councilors must make their finally decision about next year's budget.