PRC MIN 1978-02-08 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

�,""�,, � ` � � � � �� Mr. Weeks indicated that if the initiative is approved, it could resu�t in a reduction of property tax income to the City of between 50 to 60%. The City Council had requested an analysis of the financial and service impact upon the City resulting in a request of each Department to pre- pare a preliminary report and estimate of the program, dollar and per- sonnel reductions which would be associated with a 50% reduction in general fund and library fund revenues. This was accomplished by the Department and this report together with a review of the accomplishments of the va.rious objectives in the current budget were reviewed by the City Council at their all-day work session of February 6, 1978. It was pointed out to the Comnission that resultant from the Council 's work session, it was determined that an alternate budget would be pre- pared by the City taking into consideration the possible reduction caused by the Jarvis Amendment, however, showing priority to the public safety services. Mr. Weeks indicated that at this point in time it was unknown as to what the final impact would be upon park and recreation services. It was felt that as the alternate budge� started to be developed it may be necessary to call special meetings with the Corr�nission in order to discuss the impact as well as the prioritization of services which they would feel should be considered for continuation. Mr. Weeks then reviewed the various alternatives. with respect to the reduction of park and recreation services based upon the 50% reduction report previously mentioned. It was pointed out that there are many alternatives which could be considered when drastic reductions take place; however, due to the very short time involved in considering the impact of a 50% reduction, it was felt those that were stated in the report would surely be involved. In addition to the impact on park and recreation services,h1r. Weeks discussed the various liability factors which could evolve resultant from the reduction and indicated that the many questions which liability raises are unanswerable at this time. It was felt that there undoubtedly would be a considerable amount of litigation which would result from such a drastic cut-back of services and facility use. Chairman Schlesinger inquired if all of the Departments were required to approach the budget preparation in the same manner and Mr. Weeks assured him that all Departments participated in the initial 50% reduc- tion exercise. It was again pointed out, however, that this was an arbituary approach in order to arrive at the possible magnitude of the Jarvis Amendment and to provide the City Council with background data in order to assist them in arriving at priorities. With the direction now being given by the City Council , the alternate budget will determine the future services which the City will provide within the imposed legal constraints. Commissioner Anderson inquired as to whether or not a freeze had been placed upon the hiring of new employees. Mr. Weeks pointed out that the City Council discussed the possibility of a freeze, however, it was decided that in lieu of a freeze, the City Council would approve all requests to fill vacancies. -2-