After the snow ... the budget

The last couple of weeks have tested just about everyone's patience. The snow was welcome at first, but as folks shovel out and get back to work it clearly is more an annoyance. Heck, it took me more than 3 hours to get into D.C.

One thing I'd like to point out is that our public works crews and other City staff have been and continue to give it their all. Are all streets as clear as we want them to be, of course not. But we're getting there. Thank you to all who have been so patient as our crews work to clear the streets. If you still need help please don't hesitate to contact me or City Hall.

Now onto the budget. Tonight the Council is going to have a work session of the state of the City's budget. Not much has changed since the last time. It's still bad. We're still $10 million in the red for FY 20110 (starts July 1, 2010) and we've got few options.

I've been getting calls lately from people are encouraging us not to make any more cuts, at least those that will cut staff. At the same time, I also know that people don't want a tax increase right now.

We are just at the start of this process and I'm going to keep an open mind, but I will note that with increased school enrollment and less funding for local government, the Council is going to be left with some limited choices. Your feedback will be invaluable. And I'll certainly keep folks updated on this blog.