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6.H. - Page 6 of 15 <br />The categories of "middle school sports" and "after school programs" include services to 13-14 year olds. <br />A total of 8% of overall General Fund support for combined youth and teen services is allocated towards <br />teen -only programs. <br />The City provides a wide range of programs and services for school -aged children. Staff have observed <br />that as a child moves from school aged to pre-teen/teen years, teen participation begins to decline. <br />Providing programs of interest to teens has been more challenging than providing programs of interest to <br />other age groups. At the same time, staff know that teens are looking for opportunities to volunteer, <br />provide a voice in their community, and to participate in programs that are engaging and cater to their <br />specific interests. <br />Importantly, both departments support many other programs and special events provided by other <br />partners that are geared towards youth and teens that are not a part of this report. <br />Together, PRCS and Library invest approximately $5 million in total budget costs towards providing youth <br />and teen programs. In addition, a half-time teen services librarian position was eliminated from the FY <br />2018-19 budget but is recommended for restoration at this time. <br />Should the City Council desire to modify the distribution of programs oriented to children, youth and teens, <br />staff recommends the City Council provide direction in February 2019 when City Council input is sought on <br />the FY 2019-20 budget. <br />Recommended Uses of FY 2017-18 General Fund Operating Balance <br />The City's independent audit firm has completed review of the FY 2017-18 year-end financials, and the <br />General Fund has a year-end operating balance of approximately $3.6 million. This is due both to <br />underspending in operating departments, largely attributable to vacancies, and to stronger than projected <br />property tax growth. <br />In keeping with the City Council's philosophy to use one-time funds to pay down liabilities and support <br />Council priorities without making ongoing commitments, the following approach is recommended for use <br />of the FY 2017-18 operating balance. <br />City of Redwood City 1017 Middlefield Road, Redwood City, CA. 94063 Tel: 650-780-7000 www.redwoodcitV.org <br />170 <br />