Niles budget for 2009 avoids layoffs

By Jordan Cohen

The budget averages out to just more than 9 percent less than the 2008 appropriations.

NILES — City Auditor Charles Nader released the tentative 2009 city budget of nearly $79 million, which is $8 million less than the $87 million appropriated last year.

Nader’s budget, presented to members of council’s finance committee Friday, averages out to just more than 9 percent less than the 2008 appropriations. The budget reductions were necessary because of declining tax revenue for the city.

The auditor said that despite the reductions, the city does not need to lay off any employees.

Nader said a major factor in reducing the budget was an adjustment in funding for the new Wellness Center, which is still under construction and expected to open in February. More than $4 million had been allocated for the center in the previous budget, but the amount has dropped by $400,000 in the city’s general fund.

“We’re hoping to sell enough notes to cover most of the cost, but if not, the general fund can cover the rest,” Nader said.

The water department sustained the largest reduction of more than 7 percent while the police were cut by 5 percent and the fire department by 3 percent. During budget hearings in December, a police request to purchase several new cruisers was denied, but Mayor Ralph Infante said the city might reconsider if tax revenue increases. Nader, however, is not optimistic.

“I just don’t see more tax money coming in right now,” Nader said.

Steve Papalas, council-at-large, voiced support of the auditor’s budget and said it shows how solvent Niles is despite the recession.

“We are a unique community to still be in the black with all that is going on around us,” Papalas said.

The councilman said he expects approval when council votes on the budget Feb. 3.