10C Action 2009 1116 - Laserfiche WebLink

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CITY OF SAN LEANDRO STAFF REPORT DATE: November 12, 2009 TO: Mayor and City Council FROM: Stephen L. Hollister City Manager SUBJECT PROJECT/PROJECT DESCRIPTION: APPROVED AND FORWARDED TO CITY COUNCIL Stephen L. Hollister City Manager RECONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF A PUBLIC INFORMATION PROGRAM ON THE CITY'S FINANCIAL SITUATION AND POSSIBLE REVENUE MEASURES. SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Council approve a Public Information Program to advise citizens of the City's financial situation, resulting impacts and possible revenue measures, and to obtain citizen feedback. BACKGROUND The City is experiencing an unprecedented financial situation and is projecting on-going operating deficits of approximately $5.5 million for the next five years. These shortfalls must be addressed through additional and significant cuts in city services, additional revenues or a combination of both. The City had an independent, statistical survey of registered voters conducted in August to measure voter opinions on City services and their opinions on two revenue measures - a 1/4 Cent Sales Tax increase or a Landscape and Lighting Assessment District. The response showed strong support a sales tax measure and support for an assessment district. The survey results were presented to Council at the October 5, 2009 meeting. On October 20, 2009, the Finance Committee discussed and unanimously recommended that the full City Council authorize a Public Information Program to inform the community and registered voters of the City's financial situation and potential revenue measures. The Public Information Program would also solicit input from voters who might not be reached through the City's other outreach efforts, such as presentations for the Chamber of Commerce, Automobile Dealers, the Rental Housing Owners Association, service clubs, Homeowners Associations, and town hall meetings. The estimated cost for the program, which includes three community mailings was estimated not to exceed $75,000 ($45,000 for mailer costs and $30,000 for communication consultant costs and revenue measure material preparation). At this meeting, the Committee also reviewed and recommended the formation of an ad hoc Citizens Budget Task Force, and a budget strategy which included a public information program. A copy of the Finance Committee minutes and Budget strategy report are attached.