The Bellevue City Council and department heads have no illusions about their financial situation for the upcoming fiscal year. Despite voter approval of a levy increase that will add $200,000 to the city's coffers, Bellevue, as in past years, is operating on a very lean income.
While discussing the 2008 budget, City Administrator Tom Blanchard said the total income will be relatively flat compared to last year, with the total revenue for the general fund estimated at $1.243 million. The city's revenue for 2007 is estimated at $1.242 million.
These preliminary general fund revenue figures do not include revenue from the water and sewer department, $382,500 and $445,472 respectively. They are predicted to be the same as 2007.
The income from the increased tax levy will help the police, fire and street departments, as well as the library, make a number of improvements. However, not all of the recommendations made by a citizens' advisory committee will be implemented this year, as the additional $83,560 needed to make all improvements will not be realized in the upcoming year.
"We need to stick with the percentages that the citizens voted on," Councilman Chris Koch said. "If we change it then they're never going to trust us again for all eternity."
While no decisions were made on exactly how the income from the levy will be spent, the council asked department heads to provide a prioritized list of their budgetary goals for the upcoming year. One common theme for each of them was the need for additional personnel.
Librarian Patty Gilman asked for the addition of a part-time employee, ensuring that the library remain open in the event of Gilman's absence.
After the recent departure of a deputy, Marshal Tim Green requested the hiring of two additional officers, although he said that this might take more than a year, as only one officer can be trained at a time.
Bellevue Fire Chief Greg Beaver, who works part-time for the city, reiterated the need for increased hours or additional help in order to complete necessary fire inspections for local businesses.
Having discussed the city's income, the council will take a look at expenditures during its next meeting on Thursday, July 12, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall and decide how the income can best be spent next year.
"We're holding really tight and hoping we get through," said Planning and Zoning Administrator Craig Eckles.
The city must finalize its budget by late-August in order to conform with state law.
Bellevue?s city library will benefit from income from the city?s increased tax levy, alongside other departments such as the police, fire and street departments Photo by Mountain Express
