Hubbard tightening financial belt

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. We’re buying what we need to get by.”

For the full story, read Thursday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.