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grolfe
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Posted: Fri Jul 3rd, 2009 03:40 pm |
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By Glenn Rolfe
Leader & State Register
LAUREL – Challenging economic times are reflected in the town of Laurel’s fiscal year 2010 budget.
Adopted Monday by mayor and council, the approximate $4.45 million operating budget calls for no property tax increase or cuts in town personnel, but does include increases in water, sewer and trash collection fees as well as reduction in humanitarian service grant aid.
“This year’s budget process was the most difficult in my six years of work on budget proposals,” said Mayor John J. Shwed. “We all know that the dismal American economy has had an impact on our families and all governments.”
“It was a very long process this year as our town like so many others in our state had shortfalls,” said council president Terry Wright. “I think we have come up with a good budget in spite of the challenges.”
Total expenditures for FY10 are about five percent less than the $4.7 million budgeted expenditures for FY09, said Town Manager William Fasano.
“In all, the proposed budget provides a balanced plan for spending that will ensure high quality of service and long-term fiscal sustainability for the town and its residents,” said Mr. Fasano.
Mayor Shwed was pleased that there were no cuts in staff. “We accomplished this through excellent cooperation and sacrifice from all town employees,” he said.
The budget calls for town reduction in service grant aid to the Laurel Fire Department by $10,000 and elimination of grants to the Laurel Public Library, Laurel Historical Society and the Laurel Boys & Girls Club.
Also, there is no wage adjustment for town employees in the FY10 budget.
“While people are by far our most precious asset, our staff fully understands the unique economic climate in which we find ourselves,” Mr. Fasano said. “Thus, the FY2010 budget includes no cost-of-living wage increases.”
“As the economy recovers and town revenue grows we intend to reinstate wage increases and to restore these grants to former levels,” Mayor Shwed said.
While the town property tax rate remains at $1.91 per $100 of 1974 assessed property values, fees for water, sewer and trash will increase by 15 percent to account for increased costs in fuel, chemicals and contracted services.
“Town revenue will increase once the economy improves and builders begin construction on the various sites approved for new developments,” Mayor Shwed, noting that construction of just a few dozen homes or several businesses can have a “dramatic effect” on the budget.
“On behalf of Mayor and Council I ask your patience and understanding during these tough economic times,” Mayor Shwed said.
News Editor Glenn Rolfe can be reached at 629-5505 or grolfe@newszap.com.
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