02/06/1980 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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cutbacks. Mr. Henry stated it was his understanding that the group wishes to talk about both but because of the pool closure schedule, he feels they are interested in talking first about the rotating closure. ~ He noted that arrangements for the process of the closure are under way and cannot be easily stopped without certain complications which interrelate with all the budget cuts. Mayor Keller asked if Council would support hearing from the group for ten minutes on the subject of the rotating closure. Ms. Smith felt the discussion should focus on the entire situation of the pools and would support waiting until after the Joint Parks Committee meets and Council is provided with additional information on February 20. Ms. Schue agreed that there are two separate issues and supported hearing from the group on February 11. Mr. Delay agreed that two issues are involved, but felt that if Council deals with the question of stopping the pool closures they would have to reopen the entire question of the kinds of budget cuts which have already been determined to be made in this fiscal year. All the departments made recommendations for their budget cuts, the Council approved those recommendations, and reopening this matter to look at one recommendation does not seem to be a good idea. On the basis of this, Mr. Delay did not support hearing the group of citizens. Ms. Miller was willing to reopen the entire issue of budget cuts, notifying everyone who might be affected, but was not willing to look at only one of the budget cuts. ~ Mayor Keller voiced concern as to whether staff would have an adequate period of time to make an adjustment if previous budget cut decisions were changed. Services were reduced in a number of areas and his feeling was that the Council decisions should stand. The group could be heard by the Joint Parks Committee. Mr. Hamel noted that part of the problem is that people do not under- stand the budgeting process and operational costs. Mr. Haws stated that there would be no reason for further discussion unless the staff had determined different priorities since giving the Council their recommendations. Mr. Ernie Drapela stated the original rotating pool closure proposal was based on six months of closure resulting in six months of savings in operational costs. This time was adjusted twice, once because of the need to provide citizens with a 30-day notice, and again at the request of Bethel School District. Thus, smaller savings will be realized than originally projected. Staff should immediately be advised of any consideration of rescinding the original action. . 2/6/80--2