Hubbard mayor: We buy only what we need

By LINDA M. LINONIS

linonis@vindy.com

hubbard

Mayor Rick Keenan’s goal for the 2010 budget, which council passed unanimously, was “to preserve the jobs of all the workers who provide services to the people.”

Keenan described the budget as “very tight.” But there are no layoffs.

The 2010 budget of $15.5 million isn’t that much less than 2009’s $15.8 million, said Michael Villano, auditor. The bulk part of the funds comes from taxes on individuals and businesses.

Villano agreed with the mayor’s assessment of the budget. “We’re minimizing spending in every area possible,” he said. “If we don’t need it, we’re not buying it.” He pointed out an example of office supplies stored on shelves waiting to be needed. Keeping such a supply inventory won’t be done. “We’re buying what we need to get by.”

Villano said holding on to cash in accounts, which can make the city some money, is more important.

Keenan said among measures to live within the budget are “keeping down overtime.”

He said the city must be vigilant, and employees have been cooperative in this area, but the cooperation and understanding of city residents also is needed.

Keenan said it is imperative that the 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. workday for employees in the municipal building be maintained.

Employees can’t stay an extra 15 or 30 minutes to accommodate people who come in shortly before 4 p.m. because that means overtime.

Keenan also said there are outstanding fines through mayor’s court and delinquencies in paying city income taxes. There will be renewed efforts to collect these monies. “If people took care of their obligations, it would help out the general fund tremendously,” he said.

Keenan said the city also is seeking ways to reduce its health-care costs.

Hubbard budget

By the numbers

Hubbard’s 2010 budget is $15.5 million. The majority of the funds are derived from taxes on individuals and businesses. In the general fund, $197, 215 is being carried forward from 2009. Major budget items are:

Police department: $1,656,821.

Water: $1,693,885.

Sewer fund: $1,445,560.

Income tax: $1,850,000.

Light fund: $5,786,100.

Light-investment fund: $2,482,500.

Employees health: $800,000.

Street construction and maintenance: $555,900.

Bond-retirement fund: $535,100.

Water replacement and improvement: $150,000.