June 25, 2004

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Palo Alto Online

Few cuts, but more food

In the budget outlining next year's spending, there are no major cuts planned for the extremely high number of services Palo Alto residents get from their local government.

*The Bike station, which stores bicycles at the downtown train station for free, will lose a $16,500 city subsidy, forcing it to find new funding or close.

*Support for summer concerts will be eliminated, saving $25,00. The concerts will only continue on if outside funding is found.

*The city will only train five homeless people to work in City Hall (down from a high of 10 trainees two years ago), saving $6,792.

*Parks, tennis courts, softball fields, libraries, public art and art facilities will all be maintained at a lower quality, saving more than $100,000.

Rates for utility services will also rise, if the budget is approved as currently proposed. Electricity rates will increase 8.5 percent, water rates will jump 10 percent, and gas rates will rise 9.9 percent.

The price of some rounds of golf will also go up $1 or $2.

During budget hearings earlier this year, the Finance Committee made few changes to the budget. One expense recommended was $2,500 for food for the City Council during late night meetings.

The committee also added $75,000 in spending for three nonprofits: La Comida got $35,000 to provide meals for seniors, Urban Ministry received $25,000 for hot meals for the homeless, and Adolescent Counseling Services received $15,000.

The council is reviewing and approving the $116 million plan on Monday night. The meeting begins at 7 p.m. --Bill D'Agostino

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