SNOHOMISH — With some big decisions made by the City Council on Tuesday night, city staff can now finish working on a proposed 2012 city budget.
“We have enough information from the council that we can now provide a balanced proposed budget,” city manager Larry Bauman said.
The next time the council is scheduled to review the budget is at a Sept. 13 retreat.
In a 4-3 vote on Tuesday, the City Council decided to start negotiating a police services contract with the Sheriff’s Office, a move that is expected to save $375,397 a year.
Councilmembers Karen Guzak, Derrick Burke, Tom Hamilton and Dean Randall voted in favor. Councilmembers Lynn Schilaty, Greg Guedel and Melody Clemans voted against.
This was not the only decision council made at the meeting. In another 4-3 vote, the council asked to see a budget proposal that eliminates the planning director position, which could mean a $129,479 cut in wages, benefits and training for next year.
By not having the position, Snohomish would not have the capacity for long-term planning projects, Bauman said.
The council had agreed in past meetings on cuts that represent $310,447 in savings. They include eliminating a part-time planning position and a front desk receptionist, changing the medical plan of 70 city employees, and reducing hours for an engineer and planning department inspector.
Alejandro Dominguez: 425-339-3422; adominguez@ heraldnet.com.
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