City manager doesn't foresee tax increase

GAINESVILLE - Despite revenue losses brought on by the sluggish economy, Gainesville City Manager Bryan Shuler says he does not think the city's 2008-2009 budget will require a tax increase.

Shuler remarked Monday morning as the City Council opened a series of budget sessions out of which will come a budget for the next fiscal year, which begins July 1.

Shuler said projected expenditures total about $28.1 million, down from this year by nearly two percent. He said projected revenues are $27.7 million, down three percent.

"We are taking great steps to contain growth and expenditures, as well," Shuler added.

He said the bright revenue spots, so far, are franchise fees and sale taxes.

City Finance Director Melody Marlowe projected franchise fee revenue at $3.9-million for FY 2009, a 10.6 percent increase due largely to auditing.

Marlowe said utility settlements increased with fee revenue from Georgia Power adding up to $600,000 and Jackson EMC, budgeted for $21,000, sent $210,000.

"Those audits have paid off,' Marlowe said. "In that category it looks like we'll be receiving about $1-million over our budgeted amount."

http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/3/208564