Laserfiche WebLink
CITY COUNCIL FINANCE COMMITTEE <br /> January 14, 2011 <br /> 8:15 a.m. — 9:45 p.m. <br /> San Leandro City Hall <br /> 999 East 14 Street <br /> San Leandro, California <br /> (Helen Lawrence South Offices) <br /> HIGHLIGHTS <br /> Committee Members: Mayor Cassidy, Councilmember Gregory, Councilmember Souza <br /> City Staff Present: City Manager Hollister, Assistant City Manager Marshall, Finance <br /> Director Vesely. Deputy Finance Director Rodriguez, Budget & <br /> Compliance Manager Perini, Accountant II Galvin, Administrative <br /> Assistant III Perez <br /> Public Present: Lou Filipovich <br /> The meeting was called to order at 8:22 a.m. <br /> 1. Discussion Regarding Annual and Biennial Budget Processes <br /> Finance Director Vesely discussed the advantages and disadvantages of a biennial budget, and <br /> presented a list of 83 cities in the State of Califomia that identified their budget reporting <br /> processes. Historically, the City of San Leandro has completed an annual budget. Vesely stated <br /> that a key advantage of a two -year budget is that is it a good planning tool for City Council. <br /> However, Vesely stated that during times of economic hardship and budget reductions, a <br /> multiyear budget becomes difficult, as there are many changes and the modifications to the <br /> second year are often almost equal to running a full budget process. Vesely stated that City staff <br /> has already begun the budget process for fiscal year 2011 -12 and is not able to begin a biennial <br /> budget process due to the need for a number of system changes. However, Vesely stated that the <br /> Committee may consider a two -year budget for fiscal years 2012 -13 & 2013 -14. As a means to <br /> offer more multi -year planning, Vesely reported that in the fiscal year 2011 -12 budget, staff will <br /> provide multi -year forecasts as part of the budget document. <br /> Councilmember Souza voiced her concern that a two -year budget would always coincide with <br /> the election of new council members. Souza is concerned that it may also be confusing for <br /> citizens. <br /> Councilmember Gregory is in favor of a two -year budget as it would provide flexibility in <br /> forecasting. <br /> Mayor Cassidy stated that he has experience with a three -year budget and would like the City of <br /> San Leandro to consider that option in the future. Mayor Cassidy understands that it is not <br /> possible for staff to begin a two -year budget process for fiscal year 2011 -12 and recommended <br /> 1 <br />