HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-15-05 Informal Meeting COMMON COUNCIL INFORMAL MEETING
Saturday, May 14, 2005 10:00 a.m.
Topic Budget 101
Attendance: See Sign in Sheet
President Charlotte Pfeifer began with a greeting, an introduction of attendees and a brief
explanation of the purpose of the meeting, which she described as a "budget 101"
information session. She and the Mayor would review the outcome of the recently
completed session of the General Assembly for it's affect on local revenues and outline
the City's financial position covering revenue sources as well as projected allocations.
All in hopes of developing a deeper understanding while fostering mutual trust and
respect among the city administration, the City Council, and the bargaining units of the
police and fire departments before contract negotiations commence.
Mayor Luecke echoed President Pfeifers desire to open communications and offered
three handouts:
1. Reprints of"Fiscal Status of Municipalities in Indiana supplied by the Indiana
Association of Cities &Towns.
2. A five-page 2005 City Budget summary of revenue and expenditures.
3. A twenty-three page "budget 101"handout, which reflected the power point
presentation.
The Mayor used the handouts and power point presentation to develop a"big picture"
appreciation as the city's responsibilities to all its citizens departments and employees to
provide services promote growth, and invest in people as well as infrastructure with the
entrusted resources. The presentation began by describing the fund accounting system,
which by law the city must use in managing its financial resources. At the urging of
President Pfeifer, attendees were urged to ask questions freely as the Mayor walked
through the presentation.
Ken Marks, Local 362 asked for an explanation of hydrant fees.
COMMON COUNCIL INFORMAL MEETING
Saturday, May 14, 2005 10:00 a.m.
Page 2
Mayor Luecke explained the State 3 years ago allowed cities to collect fees, which now
provide $1.3 million dollars per year in South Bend. The first two years these dollars
were spent on streets. They are now dedicated to the Public Safety sector. The Mayor
explained the City's desire to maintain a 15% reserve in the budget to allow emergencies,
to cover late tax distributions and to merit good bond ratings. The Mayor explained the
differences between Capital and Operating budgets. Revenues of$169
Million were described by fund type and expenditures of$155 million by type with the
$14 million margin set aside for capital expenditures. Limits on future revenues were
outlined by the Mayor referring to future state imposed limits on the levy.
Councilmember Varner emphasized the value of looking for efficiencies in government
before imposing new taxes. Mayor Luecke agreed and urged all attendees to suggest
opportunities for efficiencies emphasizing the need for all have to think creatively
especially in light of shrinking revenue growth rates and increasing health care costs
borne by the City.
Adjourned at 11:20 a.m.
Res. ct ully Submitte.
`. r,•
Jo V! orde
City Clerk