Politics & Government
City Releases Preliminary 2013-14 Budget
General fund increasing by nearly $2 million, mostly to cover rising healthcare and pension costs; Additional reserve funds to be put aside for a rainy day fund
Petaluma’s financial picture is improving, with rising sales taxes, new licenses and fees, according to the preliminary 2013-14 budget. But progress is being hampered by rising healthcare costs and retirement obligations, meaning the city can’t afford to hire new employees and expand services.
On Monday, the City Council will discuss the draft budget and general fund revenues, which are being increased by $2 million in the coming fiscal year. The increases will be spent on employee salaries and benefits (mostly healthcare).
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Another $1.1 million will be designated specifically for Petaluma’s reserve fund to be used for emergencies or one-time expenses not accounted for in the budget. The money is coming from a $500,000 annual payment from Petaluma Refuse & Recycling, the garbage company that received a no-bid contract last year from the city. PR&R will also pay the city $250,000 a year for street maintenance as part of the deal.
In addition, Petaluma will from Sonoma County for property tax administrative fees following a statewide lawsuit.
Find out what's happening in Petalumawith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Monday’s meeting starts at 6pm at City Hall.
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