Finance Highlights 2009 0421 - Laserfiche WebLink

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was an idea on how many employees would be accepting the offer. Human Resources Director Caire stated that employees were given until October 2009 and therefore we will not know any figures until that time. Councilmember Prola stated that it is time to review revenue enhancement ideas, including raising sales tax by 0.25% to 10% for the City of San Leandro. Mayor Santos stated that the citizens need to approve the increase by a simple majority of 50%. Hollister indicated that the City can have a special election if we declare a fiscal emergency. Interim Assistant City Manager Diaz stated that shrinking the organization is something everyone must come to grips with. 3. Review of Council Direction for FY 2009-10 Budget Hollister provided a summary of the March 23, 2009 Council Work Shop Session. He advised that staff anticipated bringing a complete budget to the City Council meeting on May 18, 2009. Mayor Santos inquired if outside funds may be obtained to assist with Youth Employment Program. Recreation and Human Services Director Knudtson stated funds received are given to the agency that offers employment and therefore she must research if outside funds can be utilized. Knudtson advised the San Leandro Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) does not employ the youths but provides screening for other agencies and then suggests where the teens should apply. Mayor Santos stated that perhaps the City should look at taking the program over. Hollister is hopeful that there is stimulus money that we may be able to access. Hollister advised the Committee that the Police Department submitted a grant application requesting funds for 6 officers. Unfortunately the Department of Justice (DOJ) has notified all cities that funds for 6,000 positions were available and they have received requests for 30,000 positions. Therefore the City of San Leandro may only receive funds for 2 officers. Interim Captain Pricco stated he will know more information by September 2009. Mayor Santos stated that the City will honor their two-year commitment with Community Assistance Grant Funding however is unable to make any future commitments after next fiscal year. Knudtson stated that her department is working very hard with vendors on contributing to celebrations, e.g. Cinco de Mayo, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and others. This is something they have done year to year in order to reduce expenses for the City. Knudtson stated that she received an overwhelming response from vendors after receiving a letter from Mayor Santos requesting their assistance for the Cherry Festival. The Committee would like staff to review the closure of Farrelly Pool and research the possibility of utilizing the pool at San Leandro High School (SLHS). Mayor Santos stated that perhaps refurbishing the high school pool would be less expensive as a joint project. City Engineer Joseph stated that refurbishing Farrelly Pool is on the Capital Improvement Project (CIP) list but was not recommended for FY 2009-10. Hollister reminded the Committee that the closure of Farrelly Pool was temporary but that children in the area can still utilize the SLHS pool for swim lessons and the pool at the Boys & Girls Club for open swim time. Library Services Director Bohne stated that Mulford Garden Library will remain open 4 days a week and the South Branch Library will be open 3 days a week. Also, Casa Peralta and the History Museum will open on the weekends and for school groups. 3