Redmond Mayor John Marchione presented his proposed budget for the fiscal year 2009-10 to the Redmond City Council Tuesday night.
He began with mentions of the current economic downturn and the need for the city to “live within its means,” then stated that his budget reflects the vision of this new administration, citizen priorities as identified through a Budgeting by Priorities process and accountability for results.
Throughout the year, Budgeting by Priorities focus groups and result teams have shared ideas about the most effective ways to achieve results in six priority categories. In no particular order of importance, these are:
• Business — “I want a diverse and vibrant range of businesses and services to Redmond.”
• Clean and Green — “I want to live, learn, work and play in a clean and green environment.”
• Community — “I want a sense of community and connection with others.”
• Infrastructure and Growth — “I want a well-maintained city whose transportation and other infrastructure keeps pace with growth.”
• Responsible Government — “I want a city government that is responsible and responsive to its residents and businesses.”
• Safety — “I want to be safe where I live, learn, work and play.”
Marchione noted that while studying priorities and best ways to achieve them, all participants in the Budgeting by Priorities process have been reminded to “preserve core services” and “provide quality or no service at all.”
AT-A-GLANCE
Some key elements of Marchione’s proposed budget include:
• A 1 percent property tax increase, plus construction consistent with historical levels.
• A utility (water/wastewater) increase limited to 6 percent per year for the next five years.
• Honoring the Council policy of a 5 percent CIP (Capital Improvement Plan) transfer, with a proposed 6.4 percent contribution.
• Upholding a commitment to build Fire Station 17 on Education Hill, plus making further investments in downtown Redmond.
PRIORITY ITEMS
Marchione said citizen input was valuable and appreciated, but not all of the suggested ideas could be funded at this time. Breaking the budget priorities down, some of the initiatives proposed by citizens and either included or not included in the mayor’s budget were as follows:
• Business — Included: Simplify the Community Development guide and zoning code. Not included: Fund a feasibility study to create a vibrant business community.
• Clean and Green — Included: Encourage “green” development with a system of incentives and services. Not included: Develop more recycling stations.
• Community — Included: Provide one-time funding to develop a new Web site. Not included: Fund a performing arts center.
• Infrastructure and Growth — Included: Emphasize the need for better transportation options reflected through both the Capital Investment Program and the provision for alternative mobility options. Not included: Develop light rail locally along SR 520 into downtown Redmond.
• Responsible Government — Included: Perform a comprehensive biennial citizen survey to ensure that the city understands the needs of the citizens. Not included: Personalized online services for citizens.
• Safety — Initiative included: Fund school resource officer programs to keep the commitment to citizens with the August 2007 levy. Not included: Expand after-school programs at elementary schools.
LEND YOUR THOUGHTS
Details about Mayor Marchione’s budget proposal have been posted on the city’s Web site, at www.redmond.gov/BP. Redmond residents are encouraged to offer comments at a public hearing at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21 in the Council Chambers at Redmond City Hall, 15670 NE 85th St. Another public hearing is scheduled for 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18.
