North Bend approves $17.8 million budget for 2003

Published 1:03 pm Thursday, October 2, 2008

NORTH BEND – Despite imposing a hiring freeze, not having money for street maintenance and possibly downsizing staff over a three-year period, city officials say the 2003 budget situation could’ve been a lot worse.

Last week the City Council approved the $17.8 million 2003 budget, which will find the city cutting about $120,000 in services to compensate for funding losses associated with the passage of voter-approved initiatives that have reduced tax revues for cities.

Among the cuts will be the elimination of a receptionist position and a reduction in staff through attrition for the next three years. Finance Director Elena Montgomery said vacant positions will be evaluated when they become open to determine if they should be filled. The freeze will not affect the city’s search for a new city clerk, she added. The purchase of new equipment and technology for City Hall will not be allowed during that period.

For the complete story, pick up a copy of this week’s Valley record