Zimmerman pitches $2.5 million of budget cuts to city commission
By Scott Rochat
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Taxi coupons, fireworks shows and the Emporia Municipal Band are on the chopping block to help balance the city’s 2008 budget.
City Manager Matt Zimmerman proposed the cut-down budget as a way of balancing the general fund with no more than a 4-mill property tax increase. That limit was set by the Emporia City Commission earlier this month.
The budget proposal also trims all new jobs and almost all spending for new projects or equipment. A little more than $2.5 million would be cut from the general fund under the city manager’s proposal.
Zimmerman said he and others had been asked repeatedly to keep taxes down. But fewer people suggested ways to do that.
“Several times we’ve said, ‘You’re telling us not to raise taxes — what do you want us to cut’” Zimmerman said. “Maybe this might get a better discussion going.”
A public meeting on the proposed budget will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday at Sacred Heart parish hall, 101 Cottonwood St.
The proposed budget also includes $341,224 in new revenue, including about two-thirds from property taxes. The rest comes from reclaiming $64,000 of transient guest tax money, along with increases in fees at the golf course, park rentals, trail fees and an elimination of bulk discounts for selling airplane fuel.
The cuts and hikes result in an overall proposed decrease of $2.8 million. That would let the city keep $400,000 in reserve in 2008. It is $78,000 ahead of projections to end this year’s budget cycle.
Spending some or all of that reserve could give the commission maneuvering room. But Commissioner Jeff Longbine said that would be a move in the wrong direction, especially since the commission is trying to build a 5 percent general fund reserve, about $914,000.
“I personally don’t feel we can budget our reserves to zero,” Longbine said. “And I’m apprehensive about it being at $300,000 to $400,000, enough for about two to three weeks. ... But I don’t see a way to increase revenue to do more. And I’m concerned about making more cuts, because then we do affect programs and services.”
Zimmerman said his goal was for the city is to maintain what it had. That meant his proposal first cut new jobs and most of the 2008 capital improvement program. After that he turned to trimming operational costs without concrete assets such as a building.
Among the proposed cuts were:
• the street replacement program, formerly bond-funded — $300,000).
• a total of $137,000 in travel and training expenses — $137,000.
• a new city planner — $76,428.
• the taxi coupon program — $46,500.
• the municipal band — $15,000.
• the annual fireworks show — $10,000.
The breakdown: $427,562 is proposed to be cut from new positions, $1,863,923 from the capital improvement plan and $213,500 from operational costs.
“I appreciate having the total picture,” Commissioner Bobbie Agler said. “We have some tough decisions.”
To see the city’s budget, go online to www.emporia.ws.
In other discussion:
• Larry and Connie Lewis proposed building a shooting range at the western city limits near Four Mile Carriage & Machine, 3220 W. Sixth Ave. The range would require changing city ordinances about noise and discharging a firearm. Zimmerman advised against the range, while Commissioner Jim Kessler said he’d like to hear more. Agler said he was “at best lukewarm” because of safety concerns.
• Commissioners discussed a proposal to reduce the Emporia Recreation Commission to seven members by removing one city commissioner and one school board member. No one spoke in opposition.
• The commission discussed changing the 911 telephone tax to a flat 50 cents per line, per month in 2008 instead of the current 2 percent rate.
siamesefred (anonymous) says...
Way to go Mr. Zimmerman. Thanks for proving the budget has no sacred cows. Let's see if the commissioners go along or whether they're swayed by the "poor, poor me" arguments they're bound to hear.
July 25, 2007 at 4:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
admireed (anonymous) says...
This is a good start. Can we get some more by reducing the library and zoo budgets?
July 25, 2007 at 5:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Freeway (anonymous) says...
That's a start. Now how about cutting the 4 mill property tax increase.
July 25, 2007 at 6:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
I am sad to see the training go. Fire and Police need that to stay proficient and find better ways to handle things.
July 25, 2007 at 7:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
The golf course......cut it.
M
July 25, 2007 at 7:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
Here's a thought:
What is the airport doing? I truly don't know so if anyone does, please inform me.
But, why not attract some airlines? Most of the major airlines have hub lines and maybe some of those could (or would want to) come in there......otherwise, what's the purpose of the Emporia Municipal Airport?
M
July 25, 2007 at 8:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
The airport is a way for Tyson big wigs to be able to get to the plant in a timely manner.
July 25, 2007 at 9:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
It got cut last year in the budget crunch. I had to pay out of pocket to get a higher level of EMT to better serve the community. I was out of pocket $600 and didnt get a raise or reimbursed for any part of it. Fire schools were out of the question unless either they were free or we paid for them.
July 25, 2007 at 10:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
pizza (anonymous) says...
The band and the fireworks are two things that add a little class and quality of life to an otherwise not too classy town. How about finding a way to let Tyson pay some of the numerous extra expenses they have caused? Like help for the health department, the schools, the library where the Somalians flock to use the free computers. Folks who are the backbone of the community are paying more and more just to support those who use and use and pay nothing. It's time for Tyson to ante up and be responsible for the many expenses they are causing. It's not up to the local folks to support the foreigners Tyson constantly brings in. Pretty soon all the "fun" things will be eliminated just so the tax money can support those who won't support themselves. If something is not done in this direction pretty soon there will be fewer and fewer people left to pay the taxes. Seems like a very important topic to me and it seems to be politically incorrect to talk about it.
July 25, 2007 at 10:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
vankamp (anonymous) says...
I agree that Tyson should pitch in more around Emporia. A town I previously lived in also had to cut out fireworks. Probably 6 months before July 4 they would put out collection jars for the fireworks. They were always able to provide a great firework display through donations. If Emporia is able to collect enough for the train repair, I would think they would be able to collect enough donations for the municipal band and the fireworks. I would imagine the larger employers in town would pitch in. Lets start the collecting with Emporia Motors and Longbine.
July 26, 2007 at 7:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dayjob55 (anonymous) says...
I'm glad to see the city (and their high priced employees) and going to cut the things that people with no money can use. How are those with no transportation supposed to get around with their groceries - no taxi coupons. And I'm sure that the exposure to the arts isn't important because we can all afford to go to the ESU summer theater so why do we do we need the municipal band? And everyone can afford to travel to Topeka, Wichita, etc. to see a fireworks show live so why pay for that? Does anyone out there know that the municipal band is one of the longest consecutive running municipal band in the NATION? I'm glad to see that the first things on the chopping block are the things that those with the least amount of money can use for entertainment. Some of these people don't even have cable television. There is a limit as to what the "service" organizations around town will pick up so if you think that's the answer think again. Back off commissioners & look at the big picture - line by line and start with cuts at the top - not at the bottom. Those who can least afford things are the ones being taxed out of town and losing the most as far as their entertainment and survival. Most people who use the taxi coupons are low income with either no vehicle or no drivers license but now you are asking them to beg rides from neighbors and/or family. Those are small drop in the bucket cuts. The cuts need to be made at the top - like salaries of the city manager and staff. If they are really so concerned about the fate of Emporia, let those with the fat salaries donate a percentage of it (50% would be a start) back to the town, live like the rest of us do and then maybe I'd believe a little bit of what comes out of your mouth.
July 26, 2007 at 8:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
daveedailey (anonymous) says...
I think Zimm is on the right track but I do have a problem with him cutting the things that the poorer and fixed income person could enjoy. As far as the police and fire training, I as a professional have to pay my own expenses to keep up my continueing education in order to keep my licenses. If I did not I would not have a job. I do not understand about the airplane fuel???? How much air traffic do we even have? Again with the telephone tax that hurts the small person again even though it does not seem like a lot. Oh, by the way the taxes are going up. I wonder why they are having a meeting tonight if it has already been decided. (radio). No phone calls last night. Lets just go ahead and kick the little guy down further while he is already there. Take away their water too!!!!!!!!
July 26, 2007 at 8:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
daveedailey (anonymous) says...
Kstre, get off it. If you are not so sure who I am I would appreciate some common courtsey. For your info there are five Robert Dailey in this county, 1 Don Dailey, 2 Jamie Dailey, 2 Carolyn Dailey and 3 David Dailey. If you think I am who you seem to think you know who I am call me and find out. I do not think you know for sure and I would appreciate some courtsey. Oh by the way those are the ones listed. Also just for your info, you would know that some of the related Dailey's spell their name without the I.
July 26, 2007 at 11:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
How much do you think city employees make? For my position this is one of if not the lowest paying place for this job in this state. That is why police and FD have a revolving door. We train them up and then people leave to go elsewhere.
July 26, 2007 at 11:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
Ponder this when you have a heart attack would you like to know that the guy working on you is trained to the fullest potential possible for his position? At $9.46/ hr I cant afford to pay my own way to get alot of training so I would take the very minimum which is 48 hrs every 2 years. If they take away training I wont be able to afford to work here anymore.
July 26, 2007 at 11:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
daveedailey (anonymous) says...
Emporian, I agree. From checking job situations in this town Emporia is one of the lowest paying of all. From professionals to blue collar there are few jobs to pay top. I do not blame people for going elsewhere to make money. They have raised the taxes on people but not the wages. Like I have posted before we will see more people leave here (blue and white collar). There are more houses than ever on the market here, I also believe with the tax increase and other increases people will just walk out on loans for homes, vehicles, etc. What people do with what little money they have is not my business, if a little beer, wine, smokes, whatever makes them happy then so be it. It looks as if now that will be all that is left for them anyway and the town should be happy because they will be paying tax on that. Who is to condem a person for these vices if we get the tax out of it? Most of the elderly and fixed income will give up more. I do not believe people when they say they do not have cable but yet they are on the internet? Is it not a package in town? I do believe that cuts could be made with the golf course. I also believe at this point in time Emporia would benefit big time from a casino as long as they are not given a tax break in the very beginning,.If people would just realize, the money a casino would bring in will benefit all. It is a complete turnaround even if it is welfare money.
July 26, 2007 at 12:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sciguy (anonymous) says...
If you start cutting things like the once-a-year fireworks show, support for parks/zoo, or the library budget, you might as well simply start boarding up buildings.
For one thing, if the library budget is cut, you're not going to see them trimming fat--there's little left to trim. You'll see hours cut, and programs cut, and new books and periodical subscriptions cut. Audiobooks, computers for internet access and school projects--all gone.
As for the airport, if you cut it you can basically write off any future large companies from considering Emporia for plants or headquarters.
July 26, 2007 at 12:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
So the airport is ONLY used for CEOs? And other "top dogs" of the large corporations?
Well then, raise the fees to use it. They've got the money to pay it.
M
July 26, 2007 at 12:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
emporian (anonymous) says...
Let me say that for the most part inhouse training will allow me to keep my certification. If they axed travel and training then we get no new certifications to help operate the department. New ideas go along way especially in public safety. You do not want to get into the same old routine because there are always better and more efficient ways to do things. Sorry if I am a little defensive, but when people think you are making alot and you actually aren't it kinda grinds my gears if you know what I mean. I just like to set facts straight.
July 26, 2007 at 12:25 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dh (anonymous) says...
All cities, counties, school districts, etc. are having a tough time providing everything like would like to provide without having to raise taxes. The very small amount of this budget alloted to the city band will have no effect on anyone's taxes. As one of the oldest municipal bands in the country the pleasure this group has provided to countless generations of listeners is unparalleled in Kansas. I recently was in attendance at a concert of this fine ensemble. To see the interaction between the members, the looks of pure joy from both the audience members and band members is something that should never be taken lightly. A band (of any age) exhibits everything that business leaders say they want and education leaders are trying to obtain in schools. How many other activites have been proven in numerous studies to raise test scores in all other pursuits? How many classes can raise self-esteem, teach students to work as a team, and provide communication skills, language, math, hearing, coordination, decision making skills at the same time and on an instantaneous basis? Positive results are based on a good work ethic, patience and perserverance. How many businesses do you know where a 16 year old will work side by side with an 80 year old striving for the same goal? And when that goal is not only self satisfaction but also the lifting of the souls of others, and providing a moment of thrill or beauty in a very hectic world, what can be a higher endeavor? People migrate to places where the quality of life may be higher than where they may currently be living. Arts programs are the measure of the quality of life.
It also seems as though some in Emporia feel that providing a birthday celebration for our country in no longer important. Another very short-sighted decision. How many families from the Emporia region will leave town for a day or two to witness a display at another venue taking their disposable income with them? I'm sure there are a few local businesses who prosper financially from the folks coming into Emporia and spending their money in town during the 4th holiday. I would imagine way more than the $10,000 spent will be lost.
How could any city than professes a desire to keep the inhabitants safe cut training in the newest techiques to keep the citizens protected and safe. Why should they be expected to pay for any new training out of their pocket? Does Emporia really want an untrained police and fire force?
If I wanted to be cynical I could ask about the seminars, conventions, training sessions, etc. that city managers and commissioners attend yearly at tax payer expense? Why should police and fire fighters be treated differently?
The city manager of Emporia has a very skewed vision about what makes a city a pleasant place to live and show off to prospective clients, businesses and familes. Hopefully the commissioners do have an understanding of what makes a city an attractive place to live.
July 26, 2007 at 12:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
bdprotheroe (anonymous) says...
Please, do not touch the funding for the public library. "Libraries will get you through times of no money, better than money will get you through times of no libraries."
Thanks,
Brian Protheroe
San Francisco, CA
(Proud "veteran" of the Employee Public Library)
July 26, 2007 at 12:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
daveedailey (anonymous) says...
Emporian, I truthfully understand exactly what you are saying. I do wish that the company I work for would dole out for our licenses or expenditures but again they are cutting costs just like other small company's in this town. When you put money out for these things I especially think you need some type of recognition and I understand a "thank you" does not always get it. Emporia will soon only be known as a small industrial town because of the tax breaks that these company's get that we end up paying for. I already know of two small company"s who have plans to pull out because they can no longer compete with the higher ups. I want better shopping, better this and better that but how can we get these company's to pay their employees what it takes to live here. Why not give the tax paying community a break and the company's already here a break to keep them here? I think that Zimmerman is paid more than he is worth and is not looking out for the fixed income or poor.
July 26, 2007 at 12:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dayjob55 (anonymous) says...
KSTRE-I get what you're saying about poor folks having money for cigs & beer - what I'm talking about are the elderly who don't drink, smoke, drive, etc. Yes a lot of poor make (in my opinion only) choices on how to spend their money (for cig, beer, lottery, etc.) & then gripe because they don't have any money left. I'm sorry, I don't have any sympathy for them at all. What I'm concerned about are those who really are watching their money, making sensible choices & trying to find free things to do. I'm not saying to keep the band completely, but they do start their concert season with the Memorial Day program at the All Veteran's Memorial and then play EVERY week through July. They also travel to nursing homes (at their own expense) and play for the Teacher's Hall of Fame induction. The money from the budget is mainly used for music, not salaries. The band does provide a sense of community as well as history to Emporia. So maybe they don't need as much music. A lot of the people who play in the band come from as far away as Topeka (at their own expense) to provide a little culture to Emporia and are professional musicians. Sure, some of the players are high school students as well as college students but a lot have been around the block many times. What they get paid is really a slap in the face to them, but that's all right. I still say make the cuts at the top, not at the bottom. And yes, I spent years playing in the band along with several other members of my family. You might try catching the final concert tonight and watch the children at the children's march, the hymn, and look at the sense of community that the band provides.
July 26, 2007 at 12:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
food4thought (anonymous) says...
As the citizens of this town we can not let them take away the training for the firefighters/paramedics/EMTs. There pay now is terrible for the things they do. You can go to any other town around our size or bigger and some smaller and there firefighters/paramedics are paid lots more. That is why we are losing them to other towns. Also, they have just hired an assistant fire chief that is still wet behind the ears and he was chosen over more qualified men that had been there 15 plus years and he has very little experience compared to those other men. It goes to show in Emporia it is not your education or how good you are at your job it is who you know and how well you kiss ---. If we are going to make cuts lets start at Mr Zimmerman's postion. Does he really need $100,000 plus? I don't make near that and I am educated and have been at my job 10years. He is new and has not proven his self yet. That is a very big salary for the tax payers to pay. Sell the golf course and let someone burden with expenses and get rid of the air port as well. These only benefit the few wealth individuals that have the time and money to use them. I don't think we should punish so many and take away services that more use when we could get rid of some of the more expensive things that only a few use.
July 26, 2007 at 1:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
netloafer (anonymous) says...
I think I'll go to the meeting tonight, then sit back and watch the fur fly.
July 26, 2007 at 1:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
daveedailey (anonymous) says...
Good for you netloafer, Problem being is that most of the decisions have already been made. I think the meeting will be a formality. I will be there. I would still love to bring a couple bus loads of fixed income. Wish there was a way.
Kstre, no my house is not up for sale at $128,000 but it sure sounds good to me. Oh, by the way it isn't with that realator either. Better look again. Like I said if you know me, call me because I am LMAO at you and your stupid ideas. Mel said you could e mail her/him but I bet you have not even had the guts to do that either.What you afraid of?
July 26, 2007 at 2:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
admireed (anonymous) says...
Take it easy on Zimmerman. Until he got here there was not much leadership and cards face up on the table. His job is to present the situation clearly to the community and commission. They can take his recommendations or come up with their own cuts (revenue de-inhantsments). These $$$ problems grew over time and it will take time to resolve them. Regarding his salary. You get what you pay for. Want a medical Dr who makes $45,000 sawing on you?
July 26, 2007 at 2:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
Wow, Kstre.....
Why such hostility? You can email me. I'm open minded. :)
M
July 26, 2007 at 2:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sciguy (anonymous) says...
The airport is not ONLY used for CEOs and large corporations.
If you want to try to hit those CEOs up for some cash, go ahead, but tread lightly or you will eliminate a resource used by area residents for pilot training, plane storage and air access.
July 26, 2007 at 2:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
sci--that's why I asked in the first place.....who is using it and how many planes are stored there and, I guess, insert any other questions that correspond, here.
There is pilot training there? Is this a city service (as in, are the instructors paid by the city) or is this a private service? I honestly don't know.
M
July 26, 2007 at 3:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jackslap (anonymous) says...
Such bitterness above....... Why can't we just get along.......
July 26, 2007 at 3:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
LMAO, jackslap. (Ooops. I think that annoys people).
M
July 26, 2007 at 3:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mythoughts (anonymous) says...
Those who use the airport should pay for the airport. Same goes for the golf course. I like the band as much as anyone else, but does the community choir get equal pay? Do other arts organizations get that kind of tax dollar support? Plus, you can't hear a third of the band concert anyway thanks to those lovely trains that plow through every ten minutes.
I think the penny parking meters should all be upgraded to dimes only, and taxi certificates should only go to those who are truly in need. We do have a bus system now, sort of.
I know it's hard, but we can't keep spending like a bunch of drunken sailors. The "haves" need to step up and toe the line with the rest of us.
July 26, 2007 at 3:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
daveedailey (anonymous) says...
Mythoughts, I totally agree with your last sentence. I hope as many people as possible go to the meeting tonight but I do believe that it is already a lose lose situation. If there is a big shift in the decisions I stand to eat crow. I hope that Zimm realizes how much useless spending has gone on and will not let it happen again. It is a matter of keeping the purse strings tight, but we all have to pay. I agree in doing away with the golf course, after all, how much money does it bring in in the winter time? Also does it attract white collars (CEO'S) or even tourists? Just how many people do they average in one summer? Is it enough to cover the costs of upkeep without being a burden on the city?
July 26, 2007 at 3:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
Okay then, Kstre. Thanks for answering. Honestly, though, it appears that you have some type of fascination with Dave/Dave/Dailey.....are you an ex of his/hers?
And, even if Dave/Davee is a male or female, does it matter? What I mean is that LOTS of people (if not all) on this forum get the freedom of anonymity. And even if you are right, why are you so consumed with making sure everyone knows that you are sure?
I suppose if/when s/he is ready to announce his/her "real" name, we'll all be drooling at the bit, huh?
Not that I agree with everything s/he's said, either, because I don't. It just seems that one of your first posts was immediately (and hatefully) directed to Dave and it's continued from there.
I was the product of hateful callings by a person who used to post on here.....I just see no place for it, that's all.
Sorry to call you out on that.
M
July 26, 2007 at 4:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
scarlettfreebird (anonymous) says...
Kstrebuchet (as well as anyone else out there in the Internet who has no clue about the Municipal Band):
Cutting the municipal band would be a miscarriage of governing.
I have been a PROUD member of the Emporia Municipal Band for two years now, and I would love to clear up your confusions about a group, it would seem, is little known.
The $15,000 budget for the EMB goes to two main things: equipment, and payment of band members. Most of the music we have is borrowed from various sources, not bought. A vast majority of our budget money goes UNSPENT and either accumulates or rolls back into the city (I know not which). This year was the exception.
As a GIFT to the city of Emporia for its 150th birthday, the EMB board of directors elected to have a piece commissioned by James Barnes (of Lawrence) entitled “Beacon on the Prairie”. In addition to this gift, we were invited BECAUSE OF IT to play at the Kansas Bandmasters Association meeting in Wichita, an honor not many municipal bands get. Our first debut of the piece was on the 5th of July at Freemont Park to our loyal audience; the second was in Wichita to band directors from across the state on the 13th. Doing these things cost money, money we the band have and have been allotted.
We truly were the ambassadors to “The Beacon” that night, and, as anyone in our audience would tell you, we are every Thursday night in June and July.
The EMB provides free entertainment to anyone in the area who comes to Freemont park to watch us, as well as a venue for groups like the girl scouts to fundraise complete with an announcer for their cause. More importantly, it’s a way for band students to learn new skills (like sight reading) and keep their instrumental endurance during the summer months, both things I’m sure the local band directors can tell you make for a better musician in the fall.
The EMB is NOT composed of professional musicians: its roster is filled with former and current band directors and music educators, local business people, a family doctor, and students. These are members of the community giving back to the community.
I cannot properly express the outrage I, as a member, feel for Zimmerman for his poorly-made decision to cut the EMB, and more so for choosing a time to hold a forum where its fate may be decided when every EMB member and supporter will be at Freemont Park performing or watching the band’s last concert of 2007.
I only hope its not it’s last concert, period.
July 26, 2007 at 4:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dhcc66 (anonymous) says...
ok, first of all, i think most of you have gotten way off of the subject. has anybody bothered to look at a line item copy of the budget to see exactly what is being paid for?
July 26, 2007 at 4:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dhcc66 (anonymous) says...
we also have to realize that steve commons is the reason we are here where we are today. zimmerman has just been here for 4 months now (if i'm counting correctly) and nothing that has been ruined over the course of somebody elses 20 plus year career can be solved in 4 months....or maybe even in 4 years. if you want to complain, do it to commons (now in oklahoma thank god) or some of the recent or present city commissioners....they are the ones who APPROVE the budget, not zimmerman
July 26, 2007 at 4:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dhcc66 (anonymous) says...
oh, and for all those who don't remember, the city employees (except the department heads) have gone 7 years with only two raises. one for 1 percent and then one for 1 1/4 percent.
July 26, 2007 at 4:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dhcc66 (anonymous) says...
oh, and lastly, i happen to love this city. it's people, it's buildings, and the atmosphere we live in is wonderful. for those who don't believe me, try going to anywhere else in kansas. the budget will work itsself out. if you want to come to the meeting tonight, come with sensible solutions. don't come with your own agenda or your own personal baby in a basket. come with ways we can sensibly make cuts or make work things through so we can continue to make this one of the best cities in kansas. the debate in this fourm shows that people are passionate about the atmosphere in this town and i'm very glad to see it. now...use all of that energy on working with the city to figure out ways to tighten the budget belt without completely wiping out each other.
July 26, 2007 at 4:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
admireed (anonymous) says...
dhcc66. Is the city paying any more for employer share of your health insurance or retirement than they were seven years ago?
July 26, 2007 at 4:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
dhcc66 (anonymous) says...
less
July 26, 2007 at 5:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jc1968 (anonymous) says...
I would like to commend Zimm for recommending the cuts he has. A lot of you have the idea "it is a small cut, it does not effect our taxes". We have been asking all our departments to cut over the last couple of years and every little bit helps. I think we should look at what is a neccesity and what is a luxurary and cut the fat.
As far as the training expenses go I would like to add. I have been to training provided for the general public and I have been to training provided for Law Enforcement. The public training is usually a vaction with networking. Law Enforcement training is equeal to going to school and networking. So lay off about the police and fire paying for their own State Mandated training. I know both departments do a lot of in house training to cut expenses but you also need new ideas gathered from outside sources to compliment your efforts at home.
Let's cut the fat and special intrest spending and get back to the basics.
July 26, 2007 at 6:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
MelissaE (anonymous) says...
Heeheee! For someone who's time is not worth it anymore, you sure are spending a lot of time on it!
I never said I didn't know daveedailey.
If you care to discuss further, you can certainly email me at mountainous5390@yahoo.com as I've suggested all along (to keep it off the boards) to which you haven't done.
And to pull bits & pieces of what I have written in no way constitutes the point you are trying to make. But I don't mind, btdt.
And FTR, there's something called NETIQUETTE. A cross between Internet & Etiquette. One rule is not to detract from the current discussion at hand (to which I'm also guilty of doing). Another is to let people remain anonymous and take your nitpicking elsewhere (my email, for example) if you have a particular issue with them. A third is to spell check prior to posting. There are more but again, I'm violating Rule #1.
And I forgot BAITING. That's when a poster works really well at getting people off topic and discussing the one (or several) topics they'd rather not. It worked again here.
M
July 26, 2007 at 10:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
citizen (anonymous) says...
I agree with Vankamp a 100%
July 27, 2007 at 10:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Clayton (anonymous) says...
I would like to clarify some statements made by scarletfreebird regarding the city band budget.
I have been a member of the band for 14 years. For the last five I have served on the board of directors.
The $15,000 that the band receives yearly from the city does indeed pay for equipment and a small stipend for the band members.
However, the statement that most of the money is unused is incorrect.
The city band has an active roster of approximately 45 members. In addition we have a sub roster that adds around 15 or so more. But on any given concert there are roughly 45 members playing.
For 10 concerts plus weekly rehearsals, we pay each member a stipend based on how long they have been in the band. We also have a two member equipment crew that gets paid as well as our announcer. In addition, our conductor gets a slightly larger stipend as he has many additional hours invested in prepartion for each weeks concert.
The bulk of the $15,000 goes towards these stipends each year. There is not a large unused sum of money at the end of the year as was stated previously.
I am happy to answer questions via my email: csa@kkpsi.org
I hope that the City Commissioners will choose to continue to support the Municipal Band this year and in the future as well as the good people of Emporia have done in the past. Having this band with it's rich long history is a feather in the cap for Emporia. We are priviledged to have a band of this quality for as long as we have had it (the Municipal Band in it's current form has existed AND been funded by the City of Emporia since 1941) and I am proud to be a member.
again . .please feel free to email me with comments and/or questions
thank you
July 30, 2007 at 12:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )