Finance Highlights 2008 0917 - Laserfiche WebLink

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San Leandro Unified School District Superintendent Lim addressed the Committee and provided an overview of the Request for Proposals and where construction stands at this time. Lim stated that the construction of the campus is funded however the gym is not. The gym will be used by the City for programs as well as for school functions. The amount of money that is needed from the City is unknown as the bids are not due until the first week of October. Mayor Santos suggested to Hollister that a letter be sent to Legislation and to the Governor regarding the shortfalls and how the City is not able to assist the School District. Mayor Santos reiterated how the City would like to aid the School District however there are constraints. Councilmember Gregory agreed. Finance Committee recommended taking this to Council for further discussion. 4. Discussion on Current and Potential Budget Deficit Strategies (911 Fee, Ballot Measures, Expenditures, Process) Finance Director Carter discussed the 3 measures on the November Ballot, which includes: Measure RR — Utility User Tax; Measure SS — 911 Tax; and Measure TT — Police Services Parcel Tax. Carter explained that Measure RR — Utility User Tax does not increase revenue but clarifies the services that are taxed. Carter discussed the discontinuation of the 911 fee, effective September 2, 2008, and the anticipated shortfall of $2.9 million in revenue should ballot measure SS not pass in November. Carter informed the Committee that due to cost savings, the fiscal year 2007- 08 shortfall is $1.4 million less then originally anticipated. Staff will begin working on fiscal year 2009-2010 budget in October, much earlier than past years. Mayor Santos stated that the City of San Leandro is in better shape than other cities and perhaps we should consider assessment districts to raise more revenue as allowed by Section 530: PROPERTY TAX: LEVY; LIMIT, which states, "Annually, within the time provided by law, the Council by ordinance shall levy a tax upon all property taxable by the City at a rate adequate to meet obligations of the City for the fiscal year. The tax levied upon each one hundred dollars ($100) of the assessed valuation of property shall not exceed, in the aggregate: (a) one dollar ($1) for general municipal purposes, including: (1) fifteen cents for libraries; (2) twenty cents for recreation and parks; (b) additional amounts required to pay the cost of retirement and pension benefits under the provisions of the Public Employees' Retirement Law; (c) additional amounts authorized by the voters of the City for specified purposes." Councilmember Gregory stated that this suggestion has not been rejected by Senator Corbett's office and that follow-up is necessary. Cl