HomeMy WebLinkAbout05101999 PORT TOWNSEND CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES OF THE UNOFFICIAL STUDY SESSION OF MAY 10, 1999
BUDGET 2000 WORKSHOP
The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m by Mayor Forrest Rambo at the Pope Marine
Building. Council members present were Allen Frank, Veto Garrison, Sydney Lipton, Geoff
Masci, Forrest Rambo, and Alan Youse. Joe Finnie was excused. Staff members present were
Interim City Manager Stan McNutt, Finance Director Michael Legarsky, Financial Analyst Gary
Leaf, Public Works Director Bob Wheeler, and City Clerk Pam Kolacy
Mr. McNutt introduced the topic of the budget process, noting that the city was starting the
process early.
Mr. Legarsky provided written materials including the city's current mission statement for
financial operations; an example of budget policies from the Tumwater budget, and information
on recommended budget practices, basic accounts in the BARS system, and last year's budget
schedule.
Discussion items included contingency funds and reserves, basic vs. discretionary services, and
what policies currently exist within the city. Services considered "discretionary" may in fact be
mandated, contractual, or existing obligations. It was noted that the primary policy documents
for reference include the Port Townsend Municipal Code, council resolutions, and the various
master plans of the city.
Mr. Rambo requested more detailed information on BARS accounts.
Mr. Legarsky explained that some items, such as pass through grants or interfund loans are
"double counted" and affect the bottom line budget figures.
Mr. McNutt referred to the adopted "transition" resolution which currently directs the City
Manager to give the highest attention to basic services and find ways to maximize efficiency in
all city departments. He noted that one of the policy challenges is determining how to shape
"discretionary" items.
Gary Leaf presented material on strategic budgeting and explained the finance department's
desire to begin budgeting strategically for multiple years ahead. He demonstrated how models
may be used to change figures as assumptions or facts change.
Discussion of initial budget policies continued. Suggestions of possible policy direction
included:
Strive for fair and equitable cost sharing among stakeholders (example: pool and
recreation facilities and programs).
Consider the business needs and business survival of local businesses or help minimize
the impact on businesses of capital improvement and transportation projects.
Fees for services or processes delivered by the city be collected from those benefitting at
100% of the total true cost to the city.
Self-supporting fees for services wherever possible and appropriate
Sufficient funds allocated to cover council expenses.
Cut utility rates 1% - 10% per year
A readable, comprehensible, "linear" published budget.
Evaluate newspaper of record for cost efficiency
Discussion continued with comments from the audience.
At 9:20, Mayor Rambo adjourned the meeting.