Budget Summary 2010-2011
January 4, 2010
Attached is a budget summary (preliminary) for the Village Budget of March 1, 2010 through February 28, 2011. This budget was put together with the help of village staff and commissions and council. After a preliminary budget for sent to the me, I then made adjustments as I felt were necessary and based on previous direction by the Council. The Village Council in January will review and discuss the budget, and, most likely make several changes. In February the Council will hold two public hearings on the budget and at the second meeting in February they will approve a budget. During the budget process the Village Council will consider what millage rate levy. Should you wish, a copy of the entire budget is available at the governmental center. The governmental center is open Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm. Your comments are encouraged.
What are the line by line operating costs of the municipal buildings for the Village (utility costs, snowplowing, etc.)? How are they divided between the township and the village entities?
Has anyone discussed combining the two governmental agencies (other than “under the current one roof”) -Village and Township?
Is there a plan to review energy efficiency in light of the Village’s interest in “greening ER”? If so, who is designated to provide this data? What savings can be achieved from reductions in use/efficiency? Geothermal heating, solar (roof of the municipal bldg), etc.?
How does our master plan address energy compared to other small towns, i.e, Frankfort, Manistee?
I see there is a note to “freeze” salaries — was there any thought to reduction since it seems most other governmental agencies (state and national level i.e, governor’s voluntary reduction in salary, Cox recommendation for an across the board 5% reduction) are being forced to make these difficult reductions, either salary or health benefits, etc.? I know these are unique, unprecedented times — wouldn’t have ever imagined General Motors would be bankrupt….
Has anyone at the Village reviewed the Traverse City COFAC report?
How many “households”/residences are in the Village proper? How many are 100% homesteaded? What is the average household income? How many are summer/seasonal only? How many are gone only in the winter months? How many are employed? How many are retired? How many have children in the school system? How many foreclosures have occured in the Village in the last 2 years? How many vacancies in the downtown/business district? How many own the buildings for their businesses?
State revenue is part of our budget, but what is the percentage required from the residents of the village? Based on the answers above, how much can they afford?