What can we predict for 2004? Considering the changes we saw in 2003, we would almost need a crystal ball to see what’s going to happen in 2004. One thing we can be certain of is the State of California will try every way they can to get money from our City to balance their budget.
We are starting to look already at next year’s budget, which starts in 6 months. We are also checking our present budget to make sure that the expenditures and income are still accurate. In a budget for the year you have to make some predictions along with some known facts to create a budget; the unknown is always the problem. So far our City has been pretty accurate on predictions, but with the State trying to make new laws almost daily to take money from us it is hard to keep up.
The League of California Cities is bringing an initiative to the November 2004 voters. This is a State Constitutional change and will require a 2/3 vote of the people to pass. The initiative is being named the Local Tax Payers and Public Safety Protection Act Initiative. It is a shame that the cities should have to fight so hard for what is theirs to begin with.
Now on a better side, I hope all of you have a great New Year!
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