RES 2002-1835 - Proposed 2003 budget Q gAA� HA,n,4,b or,
anti rat. Office of the Mayor
�, e n
���[ 1819 Famam Street,Suite 300
�®r Omaha,Nebraska 68183 0300
�A ry' (402)444-5000
oR'i'tD FEBO3t. FAX:(402)444-6059
City of Omaha
Mike Fahey,Mayor
2003 Budget Presentation
July 23,2002
Good afternoon Mr. President and members of the City Council, ladies and gentleman, I appreciate
the opportunity to talk to you today.
As newcomers to City Hall last year, we worked under rushed timelines to craft the 2002 budget.
You will recall it wasn't easy. We faced a$15 million shortfall, deep cuts in departments and
programs; and the first layoffs Omaha had seen in many years. But we looked forward to 2003 with
hope and optimism.
Unfortunately, no amount of time is going to take the sting out of the 2003 budget. The shortfall
between legitimate department requests and projected revenues for 2003 grew to $26 million. Sales
tax receipts for the second year in a row remain significantly under projections.
Other sources of revenue, such as the cable modem fee have been eliminated entirely. The
Unicameral cut more than a million dollars in state aid- and pending their special session -tougher
cuts are looming.
And we continue to have substantial debt service from riverfront development and other past
commitments that limit our financial flexibility.
We have taken steps that have helped. I enacted a hiring freeze several months ago that will save
the city approximately $5 million this year. And, I instructed department heads to make deep cuts
in their proposed 2003 budgets. In fact, I have recommended that no department other than police
and fire receive an increase from 2002 levels. Most have actually been decreased.
In terms of general funds allocations,this means we cut approximately $23 million from department
requests for 2003, allowing us to reduce proposed spending to a total of$229,899,481. This is the
second year in a row we have made cuts of this magnitude and have limited general fund spending
growth to 3% or less—an amount near the rate of inflation and substantially under the growth of
previous years.
1 In fact, in our first two years in office we've cut the average rate of general fund spending growth
nearly in half compared to city budgets over the last decade.
Average spending increases over the last 10 years were 5.2%and in my two years it has averaged
2.8%. Still,this has not been enough.
The proposed 2003 budget also eliminates funding for 120 city government positions impacting
almost every department. We have not seen job cuts of this magnitude at City Hall in many years.
1
Again, only sworn personnel within the police and fire departments have been exempt from this
reduction. Even in the leanest of times,police and fire protection—the most basic city services—
must remain our highest priorities.
We have studied this budget from every angle and have considered all of our options. Regrettably,
the only responsible solution is to propose a 1.5 cent increase in property taxes. We have cut as
much as we can and every department will go without important needs, but we should not cut public
safety.
By no means will this budget address all public safety issues but it will: put more than 30 additional
police officers on Omaha's streets by next summer, when they are needed most;
increase our authorized strength from 750 to 764; and this September our recruit class will be
increased from 32 to 40.
For our firefighters we'll increase our authorized strength from 605 to 634 and that will help
eliminate overtime. With the addition of two rescue squads late last year our fleet now has 13 rescue
squads; 23 engines; 10 aerials; Rescue 1 and Rescue 23 operating out of 23 fire stations.
As stewards of Omaha's tax dollars we are charged to responsibly manage services and programs
for citizens. There are breaking points and the 2003 budget has forced us to walk a fine line. Cuts to
programs can only go so deep before we cripple or eliminate them and only so many jobs can go
unfilled before work grinds to a halt.
This year will bring some painful funding reductions. Among those programs that will see
substantial reductions include Sun Dawgs and the School Resource Program. These are painful to
me, but the sour economy leaves me no choice.
Two years of falling revenues is unprecedented. As I have worked on the 2003 budget I remind
myself often, "that this too shall pass."
Let there be no doubt, all Omahans will feel the impact of this budget but our sluggish economy
will turn around and revenues will at some point begin reaching projections again. But in the
meantime, we must protect our highest priority in these uncertain times -public safety.
In the following weeks I look forward to discussing.your suggestions as we work together to
fashion a budget that best serves the citizens of Omaha in these tough times. I am open to your ideas
and recommendations.
And to the Department Heads: Chief Don Carey, Ron Heezen, Cecil Hicks, Larry Foster,Norm
Jackman, Dave Johnson, Bob Peters, Stan Timm, Maria Vazquez, Chief Paul Wagner, and Reggie
Young my sincere thanks. It has not been easy and I applaud your efforts. You represent your
departments well. Even more comforting to me is knowing your staffs care too. We have the people
who are willing to sacrifice and have the know how to get the job done.
The Citizens of Omaha couldn't ask for more.
Next year we will remain focused on our beautiful,new riverfront. Each day brings us closer to
miles of new walking paths, green spaces, business parks, and of course, our new convention center
2
,
arena. We remain committed to bettering our neighborhoods—making them safer, making them
cleaner, making them friendlier.
We live in a great city and in a great country. Together we will manage through these tough times
and in the end I firmly believe build stronger and better programs and services for Omaha.
Thank you
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RECEIVED D.L s7IS1 T.ftL -Is
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CIST.#2_
DST.#3 {
August 13,2002 02 t1UG 13 P1 1: 32 DIST #4
DIST.#5
LIST.r:=3
DIST.a
CITY CLERK CH.OF STAFF 1
OME'.N ,, NE.f3 ?ASI',r= STAFF1rJc✓
Mr. Chuck Sigerson,Jr,,President CITY CLERK P /
Omaha City Council LOBBYIST
1819 Famam Street
Suite LC-1 AUG 13 '02
Omaha,NE 68183
Dear Mr. Sigerson: Tm11"t
l3°
We are writing on behalf of the Westside Community Schools and the Omaha Public Schools to urge you to
maintain the School Resource Officer (SRO) program agreement between the City of Omaha and our schools.
In making your decisions on the City's budget, we request your consideration of the following information on
the SRO program.
• The COPS grant, which in substantial part funds the SRO program, is a hiring grant intended to provide
funding for police officers to serve in schools. (The Omaha Police Department incurs only minimal costs
for three years of each grant.) This allows the police department to backfill or hire replacement officers
with monies now freed from the officers covered under the grant. (Currently there are 22 SROs in school
districts covered by the COPS grant.) Once the grant runs out, the school districts are committed to pay 50
percent of the cost of the SRO program for the remaining seven years of the agreement.
• We understand from a telephone call to the COPS grant office in Washington, D.C. on July 29, 2002, that
should the grants be canceled, a review by the COPS office will ensue and the City could be required to
repay grant monies previously received.
• We had no opportunity to discuss ending the SRO program with the Police Chief or Mayor prior to a June 29,
2002 telephone call.
• We have just completed a 40-hour middle school SRO training program for the first year implementation of
the middle school SRO program in the 2002-03 school year.
• We are concerned there could be an exodus of SROs who may request reassignments at shift change in the
fall if the program is slated for only one more year.
• The SRO Monthly Reports for 2001-02 show the officer hours saved for each precinct in response time and
incident resolution and thus reflect the fmancial viability of the SRO program.
We urge you and other Council members to recognize the important public safety role SROs play in the Omaha
community and further urge you to continue this extremely worthwhile cooperative program between the City
and our schools.
Sincerel ,
Kenneth M.Bird,Ed.D. John J.Mackiel,Ph.D.
Superintendent Superintendent
Westside Community Schools Omaha Public Schools
c: Mayor Fahey
Police Chief Carey
Omaha City Council Members •
TO CY
f • ALL CM'S
DIST.#1
DIST.#2
DIST.#3
lilio64e o05 - DIST.#4
July 30,2002 DIST.#5
rears Ate 5S DIST.#3
DIST.#7
CH.OF STAFF
STAFF I
City Council Offices CITY CLERK V
Civic Center Room LC-1 LOBBYIST
1819 Famam Street
Omaha,NE 68183 JUL 3 1 '02
ATTN: Chuck Sigerson, Council President
TIME
My neighbors and I have recently reviewed the budget. We are very concerned that the
City appears to be adding positions and balancing the budget by deducting what is called
"attrition" or the vacant jobs. "Attrition" to us means the loss of a position through
retirement or resignation. I know the Council has asked for a listing of these vacant jobs
and we hope this will clarify the situation It is very difficult for us as the public to make
heads or tails out of the budget because of this. We also do not understand how many
departments can add jobs with some filled in 2003 and others in 2004 and still come out
with the same budget amount as budgeted for 2002. We wish our checkbooks worked
the same way.
We suggest that the Council really scrutinize the budget and avoid a property tax
increase. We as property owners have been taxed enough. Every year our houses
increase in valuation about 4%. Some of us have been laid off, demoted, or on fixed
incomes and wondering how to make ends meet. We do not want to lose our homes.
Some of our suggestions for cutting the budget:
1. Show by example the need to cut back by omitting pay raises to the Council and
Mayoral staff
2. Consolidate, reduce, or eliminate departments where possible. For example, the
Personnel Department may be able to combine with Douglas County Personnel and
share services and costs. The Human Relations Department could be eliminated or
staff reduced since the same civil rights laws are enforced by the State Office (located
near the City office)and federal agencies.
3. Require that every position be justified before a Department is allowed to fill.
4. Use part time staff to work maintaining the City parks and other cut back services.
Perhaps retired City employees would be interested in part time openings who have
the expertise. This would save the City the high benefit costs of full time employees
and training.
Other comments:
J. s
1. We believe that it is important to find a way to continue to provide activities for the
youth during the summer.
2. We believe that the management positions should be examined to make sure that they
are needed. For example, it seems that Personnel is top heavy in management and
other Departments.
3. We believe some jobs eliminated in 2002 have been brought back in 2003 with
slightly different titles with the costs higher than ones replaced.
Thanks for the opportunity to express our concerns.
Yours truly,
Concerned citizens from your district
. 07/30/2002 09:15 4025731738 LTC PURCHASING PAGE 12/12
Chuck Sigerson July 29,2002
Omaha City Council
Dear Mr.Sigerson:
I wanted to r dtothemostr rec
ent information I have receiv
ed Ved regarding budget cut backs pertainina to
the city of Omaha.I am most concerned about the cancellation of the resource officers in the Omaha
schools.I will no longer be able to offer my support to any person or party that puts river front
development in front of the safety of our children.I do understand the importance of putting more
uniformed officers on the streets of Omaha,and I agree that we should do that,however I am a firm
believer that our first concern as citizens of Omaha,Nebraska,and citizens ofthe United States of America
is to create a safe environment for our children.
Mr.Sigerson,I am sure I do not need to remind you of the Littleton Colorado incident or any of the other
tragic incidents that we have seen at schools throughout the country within the last couple ofyears.The fact
remains that our schools are different than they use to be even twenty years ago. It is my belief that we
need to continue to support,and find the resource officer program we currently have in place as I feel the
safety of our children should be our number one priority.I also feel that continuing with this program gives •
our children a positive attitude towards police officers,and a better understanding that they are people that
children should feel safe talking to or going to with any problem.Perhaps if we can continue to instill this
positive attitude in the formative years we can cut down on the number of police officers that are required
on the streets of our city in the firture.
I strongly urge you,and the Mayor to pay close attention what you are doing to the safety of our children.
You and the city council have it within your power to keep the resource officer program in place.Please do
the right thing.
TO CV
ALL CM'S V
DIST.#1
DIST.#2
DIST.#3
DIST.#4
DIST.05
DIST.#3
•
Sincerely, DIST.#7
S
Mr.and Mrs.Jon Chiesa T.OF STAFF
(402)571-3490 STAFF
CLERK
LOBBYIST
JUL 3 0 '02
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OMAHA POLICE & FIRE RETIREES, INC.
7005 South 156th Avenue Circle
Omaha,NE 68136-1030
(402) 932-9865
Basically, Police and Fire retirement pay is deferred compensation for
service already rendered and sacrificies already incurred. Public safety
employee's retired.pay is earned by meeting length of service and
performance requirements. The last adjustment to the Police and Fire
Retirement System was 1 January 1983.
The City of Omaha developed a pension system meant to guarantee
every retired Police Officer and Firefighter reasonable retirement pay.
Unfortunately, through the ensuing years such pay has been eroded by
subsequent increases in consumer prices.
The Omaha Police and Fire Retirees respectfully request the City Council
to amend Section 22-123 of the Omaha Municipal Code entitled "Prior
Adjustments" relating to supplemental retirement benefits to provide that in
no event shall the annual supplemental to pension benefits exceed 3 percent
and such increases be accumulative from year to year and in no event shall
said amount be less than a minimum of fifty dollars ($50.00) per month.
Note: The City of Omaha and the Omaha Fire Union have tentatively
agreed to a 4 percent maximum pay for future retirees.
Recently, the Douglas County Board approved a 4 percent cost of
living increase to all recipients of retirement benefits who retired before
1 July 1998.
The Military and Federal employees retirement Cost of Living Adjustment
(COLA) is measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
! Respectfully,
44/64-Z-ZCZPIIZAJ
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�` Al Pattavina, President,
yrNC'9 JG7
Omaha Police/Fire Retirees
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SCHOOLS OMAHA,NEBRASKA 68131-2024 (402)557-2222
The School Resource Program
Throughout the nation, communities as well as ours recognize that trained, sworn
law enforcement officers assigned to schools have made a difference. The School
Resource Officer Program places officers in schools in an effort to create and
maintain a safe learning environment for our children. The program reflects a
comprehensive community partnership focus which integrates the officers' efforts
with the existing network of resources in our community. Because the thrust of the
approach is prevention, it saves the community money. Overall, the School
Resource Officers provide a proactive program designed to bring prevention and
intervention into our schools.
School Resource Officers (SROs) serve in a variety of roles benefiting the
community and the schools including that of a law enforcement officer, law-related
educator, and problem solver/liaison for students, parents and the community. As
an approachable member of law enforcement, they are positive role models for
students while their presence serves as a deterrent for criminal activity in and
around.schools. The SROs provide a program of educational leadership and crime
prevention addressing students, parents and community groups on topics such as
tobacco, alcohol, drugs and gangs,violence diffusion, violence prevention and safety
issues in the schools and neighborhoods.As communication liaisons with community
agencies, they gather information regarding potential problems such as criminal
activity, gang activity, student unrest, and identify students who may be a disruptive
influence to the schools and/or other students. SROs monitor and assist troubled
students through mentoring and promoting personal and social responsibility. They
provide assistance and support for crime victims identified within the schools,
including bullied, neglected or abused children. Acting as advisors, they provide
guidance to students and their families, referring them to appropriate agencies for
assistance.
Beyond these identified roles, the SROs work to develop strong partnerships with
school principals and other administrators. By sharing a common vision that
schools must be safe and secure for learning to take place, they work as teams to
ensure that learning environments are free of fear and conducive to learning.
In essence, the School Resource Officer Program benefits everyone in our
community. Students benefit because their schools are safer. They learn about
their rights and responsibilities under the law and have an additional resource
available to them. Parents also benefit because their children are in safer learning
environments. They additionally have greater access to information about their
rights and responsibilities under the law. Teachers and school administrators
continually benefit because they are working in safe environments while having an
additional resource. Law enforcement.1officers benefit because they are empowered
SH-152 - 1382148 32510
•
to protect their communities in an efficient, effective, and community-based way.
The juvenile justice system benefits from the strength-based approach to at risk
students. Taxpayers benefit because more efficient, effective strategies are used to
address and prevent youth crime and violence. The community further benefits as
the program strengthens interagency collaboration to tailor solutions to effectively
address school-related crime and disorder.
It is important to understand the essence of the COPS Grant which now fully funds
officers who are assigned to schools. The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of
Community Oriented Policing Services, supports each officer for three (3) years
with a total contribution not to exceed $125,000 per officer. This means that for the
16 Omaha Police Officers assigned to the OPS schools,the grant pays the city a total
of 2 million dollars over a 3-year period. As stated in the Memorandum of
Understanding agreement, the school district will additionally pay the local share to
the city. This grant is designed as a hiring grant for the city to backfill the vacant
officer positions with budgeted salaries no longer needed by the School Resource
Officers. In essence, the Omaha Police Department does not pay for the School
Resource Officers' salary during the three-year grant period. As stipulated by the
COPS Grant, a sustainability agreement must be in place to enable the SRO
Program to continue when the grant period has expired. Omaha Public Schools has
entered into the sustainability agreement with the city for ten years after the grant
with the district paying 50% and the city paying 50% of the salaries of the 17
officers.
With the national emphasis on homeland security and student achievement, media,
elected officials, parents and community members are in a position now to help
support our local School Resource Officer Program, reflecting our community's
desire to ensure that our children come to school ready to achieve their highest
potential,feeling safe and secure.
•
•
My name is Ernie Boykin I am a volunteer at Miller Park
Elementary School and I am ALSO the grandmother of two
who are frequent users of Miller Park. Tiffennee, one of those
grandchildren is standing here with me tonight. Months ago,
Leslie Dean gathers concerned citizens to address summer
youth programming around Miller Park and as a result of
those meetings, "Summer in the City at Miller Park was born,
a partnership with the City of Omaha's, Sun Dawgs Program".
What was different about this Sun Dawgs Program?
Grant money was secured to increase staffing which included
four certified teachers from the Omaha Public Schools District
who would assist in providing an educational component to the
original Sun Dawgs program. Partnerships were developed
between OTOC, the City of Omaha, Omaha Public Schools,
churches around Miller Park, and the schools in the area of
Miller Park.
What happened at Summer in the City at Miller Park?
First we experienced increased enrollment that was from
` , • C p
-2-
approximately 186 children the summer of 2001 to over 400
children this summer, 2002.
Educational Field trips to the University of Nebraska
Medical Center, Boys and Girls Town, the Planetarium, and a
Cyber Camp that was conducted at North High School
brought children from all over the area. One of the other
differences in this program was the community of adult
volunteers who came from North, South, East, AND West
Omaha every week to interact with the children who
participated in the program, not just a few days this summer,
but during the entire duration of the program.
We now have a tested model that can be duplicated
throughout the community. Governor Johans has endorsed
the program and has already committed funding for the
summer program for 2003, however, we can not provide the
program if the City eliminates all Sun Dawgs Funding.
-3-
This collaborative effort would not have been possible
were it not for the Sun Dawgs budget.
It has been said that in tight budgetary times we have to
cut NON-ESSENTIAL SERVICES. Our question is which
child in this community is NON-ESSENTIAL? On the
contrary, investing in our youth is THE most ESSENTIAL
INVESTMENT that THIS CITY, COULD EVER MAKE!
Thank you!
Ernie Boykin
991-4464
STATEMENT
Omaha City Council Public Hearing
August 13, 2001
When I heard of the proposed cuts to the SunDawgs program a few weeks
ago, I began to wonder how many families would be left with no alternatives
for summer childcare. I wondered how many of us can truly understand the
struggles of families who must fmd and pay for their children to be in a safe
and enriching environment while school is out. Although I am able to stay
at home with my children, I witnessed the agony of my sister when she was
forced to fmd last-minute care for my nephew when his summer program in
Pittsburgh was cancelled.
Since I do not use the SunDawgs program personally, I believe that I can
speak more impartially about its importance to the city as a whole. With
costs for some local providers averaging $85.00 per week, some families
may be priced out of quality care for their children. The SunDawgs program
provides low-cost activities to educate and entertain all the city's children.
Through the program, parents are able to go to work knowing their child will
be safe.
I urge you to find funding to maintain the SunDawgs program at its current
level through further streamlining budgets, setting up a program for private
donations or even through higher taxes. I would certainly be willing to pay
more now for this valuable program than hear of even one young child who
was left unsupervised through the summer.
The buzzword for this year's budget process seems to be, "Safety." I only
hope that the safety of our city's children will not be sacrificed in that
process.
Mary Reynolds-East
14536 Monroe Circle
Omaha NE 68137
402-331-0317
mary_reynoldseast@cox.net
Ot ONAHA.NFe1
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F FINANCIAL POLICY SUMMARY City of Omaha Y�'7' ^
2002 Budget Summary oAsy. ;
�pA 4„e''
The annual City Budget contains exhibits on General Financial Policies, Revenue Policies and Expenditure Policies.
These three exhibits are further subtitled into specific policy areas such as cash management, debt, revenue source
and operating and capital expenditures. The following summary highlights these categories of financial policy.
ICash Management and Investment Policies:
The City Finance Department and the Douglas County Treasurer will deposit public monies in an expeditious
manner, maximize disbursement float, invest idle funds to obtain maximum return and obtain the lowest cost
banking services available in order to protect the interest of the taxpayer.
Debt Policies:
1 Long term general obligation borrowing will be used to purchase capital improvements at a rate that will allow
a level debt service tax levy within a limit of 3.5%of the total actual value of taxable property in the City.P Y Y i
Reserves and Contingencies:
IThe City will include in each annual budget a Contingency Reserve Account for expenditures due to
unforeseen circumstances.
1 The City will maintain a Contingency Liability Fund to provide financial assistance in the cases of uninsured or
underinsured casualty losses and settlement of City lawsuits prior to a court judgment.
The City will maintain a perpetual Cash Reserve Fund for emergency purposes when current year revenues or
resources are not adequate.
The City's objective for the year-end General Fund balance will be 1%of the annual General Fund revenues in
addition to maintaining cash reserves for general obligation debt and annexation debt of 2% of the outstanding
1 debt or$2 million, whichever is less.
In 1995, the City established the Keno/Lottery Reserve Fund. The Keno/Lottery Reserve Fund will accumulate
funds to $3,000,000 before appropriations will be made. The $3,000,000 reserve will be maintained unless a
Ipublic emergency arises, threatening serious loss of life, health or property.
Accounting, Auditing and Financial Reporting:
I Budgets are prepared using the modified accrual basis of accounting. Revenues are recognized in the
accounting period in which they become available and measurable. Expenditures are recognized in the
accounting period in which the fund liability is incurred. The City will maintain a budgetary control system and
produce quarterly financial reports. For budgetary purposes, the City employs encumbrance accounting which
I reserves a portion of the applicable appropriation for purchase orders, contracts and other commitments.
The City implements accounting procedures that conform to generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP).
An independent audit of all City funds and accounts will be performed annually.
Revenue Policies:
A diversified, yet stable revenue system will be utilized by the City to protect it from possible short-term
fluctuations in any of its revenue sources. The City will, on a continuous basis, explore the possibility of
obtaining new revenue sources as a way to help insure a balanced budget.
The cost of recovery rate structure will strive to recover 100% of the cost of providing the service. All fees and
charges will be reviewed annually.
6 Expenditure Policies:
The first priority for expenditures will be directed toward essential governmental services which are established
by tradition, citizen demand and administrative evaluation of current needs.
IThe City will prepare, update annually and publish a six-year planned program of capital improvements.
I - 11 -
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O .T �9�''- lto—% City of Omaha /FINANCE.DEPARTMENT
wsk 2002 Budget Summary
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...:::.:>.1::::::: `:: ::i::i::::%::.`:: [.jj:v'::: .;'::ri::2. ?Gv'::::::i :;j:::C:v :i:::::i::i ? ::r:::`;: : :::::::::::;::::: ;:t: i:: . . . . .
...............
The Finance Department plans, controls, maintains and reports the receipts,.commitments and disbursements of
'all City funds. The Department serves as support to the other departments in the areas of centralized 7
'purchasing, budgeting, accounting, internal auditing, billing, employee timekeeping, payroll, property control,
printing and word processing. The Department strives to identify cost effective improvements throughout all City •
operations.
1
...........................
1., To provide timely, accurate and useful financial data to the elected administration, City Council and 1
department managers. •
-2. Coordinate the preparation, implementation and monitoring of the annual City budget. The budget itself
should serve as a policy document, as an operations guide, as a financial plan and as a communications I
medium.
3. Maintain a diversified and stable revenue system to protect the City from possible short-term fluctuations
in any of its various revenue sources. The department strives to•maximize its revenue sources. I
4. To provide City departments timely and accurate service in the areas of purchasing and procurement,
printing, graphics, word processing, employee timekeeping and payroll.
5. Provide effective cash management and timely investment of City funds.
11,
6. To successfully implement the Governmental Accounting Standards Board's issuances Nos. 33 and 34 to
enable the City to continue to attain an unqualified opinion on the year-end City audit after 2001. i
7 . Retain an AAA general obligation bond rating and an AA revenue bond rating.
8. Implementation of a new entity wide information system to allow the City to better manage its operations
. • and better serve the public by utilizing E-Government access. �'.
2.
: :
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y.... ....... .... tua1.:::::.::::::.::........:.:Plartirted::::: .::.::::::::::........... :::::::.
.:...:..: :..:.: .:.::.:::::.::.:......:: : :;:;>;;>;::.:>:<.:;..: ::.«..;.::.;:;;:;::;:..:::::::::::::.:..:::.:...:................. . ............ ._. _ ... . .............. Goal.................
,Final Budget Production Completed 1.1/20/00 11/16/01__ 11/15/02 J
Rate of Return on Investments ' " 6.080% 5.358% 5.000%
. Payrolls Issued on Time -.26 - 26 26
Purchase Requisitions Processed 8,189 • 8,000 • 8,000
Inside Print Impressions 13,253,000 14,000,000 14,000,000
Pages Typed 31,366 35,000 36,000
iqpERAKrvENT RESOCiERCB
................ . ...........:..::.. :::::.:::........................::::.:::.::::. .::::::::.::::::::.: .:...............:.:.:.. :..:::::.: .:...:....:::o....:.::::A ro mated:::::..:::.........Plann.ed:::.:::.::
•Full-Time Personnel Complement • 52 55 53 53 .
Budget: •
• Personal Services $ 2,774,902 3,077,893 3,167,770 3,298,933
Non-Personal Services 515,640 448,731 218,573 232,190
Equipment • 23,635 24,299 12,000 200,000
•
Total $ 3,314,177 3,550,923 3,398,343 3,731,123
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FINANCE DEPARTMENT
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TMENT �j�
City of Omaha � �s�►' ��
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2002 Budget Summary r r. o �s. ";�t,
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Budget and Accounting `-
Printing and Graphics ' i
Revenue
Word Processing ,
21
Payroll
Purchasing • -i
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2002 Appropriated
Budget and Accounting
$1;109,710
This Division under the Mayor's direction prepares the annual budget. Responsibilities include: maintenance
of general accounting records; preparation of all warrants; pre-audit of all purchase orders, invoices and 1
disbursements; accountability of City owned property; Special Assessments; and Enterprise Funds. It isvi
responsible for preparing and maintaining accounting records to comply with provisions of Federal and State '':j
grants. It performs internal audits of City activities on a continuous or test basis.
w1
Revenue $732,158 1
Revenue activity includes budget implementation and the continuous monitoring and internal control of
revenue against budget ,0;,,
9 g appropriations. It is responsible for or the City's centralized , �
collection and deposit of monies by the Central Cashier and the Violation Bureau, administration of theKeno- ,
lottery game and'the Public Events Ticket Office. d,;,
Payroll -1
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$428,754 i ,,.
This Division provides for payroll payments to employees, pension payments to retirees, and disbursements of ' r,
deductions from these payments.
Purchasing 1 ;!i
• $528,135
I.
Established by the City Charter, this Division is responsible for the purchase of all parts and supplies and f y?contract services required by all departments and agencies of the City.
Word Processing ik
$210,870 i .,,
The Word Processing function provides departments, divisions and agencies of the City with a centralized, ,,i
.rapid and efficient typing service.
F
Printing and Graphics ; ;;
$388,716 I -;
This Division operates through the Intergovernmental Cooperative Agreement with Douglas County to provide I ,1
all City/County departments with copying, printing and bindery services. Graphic services include composition ` ._ y
and layout of forms and written materials. This division operates as an Enterprise Fund.
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. • CITY OF OMAHA,NEBRASKA a...•..,,
Notes to General Purpose Financial Statements g::j,..,67.45.,
•• December 31, 2000 •r ,,.�.�;''
I Investments
i
i' At year-end, the City's investment balances, other than those held by the Pension Trust Funds and
Discretely Presented Component Unit, were as follows:
Category Fair
I • I 2 3 . .Value
'e U. S. government and government
agency securities $ — 308,258,047 — • 308,258,047 •
'II Certificates of deposit 6,057,472 — — • 6,057,472
Money market funds — — 30,541,689 30,541,689 • .
'u Total investments $ 6,057,472 308.258,047 . 30.541.689 344,857.208
.I!
Investments of the Idle Fund Investment Pool are made from available cash of all City.funds and are
I.� not identified with any specific fund. The equity in pooled cash and investments account at
December 31, 2000 consisted of:
i l Fair Value
ii U. S. government and government agency securities $ 91,490,465
Bank deposits(book balance) 3,133,475
;! Certificates of deposit 6,000,000
: Petty cash 110,383
1
;i 100,734,323
Less cash—included in restricted assets (50,964)
ygl g 4. $ 100,683,359 4if.s'5-41r1,.
. Investments of the Pension Trust Funds for the Civilian Plan and Uniformed Plan consisted of the
following at December 31,2000 and are considered Category 3:
. Civilian Uniformed .
Plan , Plan
Fair Value Fair Value
I
Short-term investments $ 3,595,677 1,549,537
U. S. government and government
. agency securities 38,043,815 48,659,291
!. Corporate bonds 58,242,700 64,389,710
t' Corporate stocks 149,722,997 245,427,144
$ 249,605,189 360,025,682 ,
•
24 (Continued)
r
:or .;,}, Gifford Park Neighborhood Association
532 N. 33rd Street, Omaha, NE 68131
August 1, 2002
To: Mayor Mike Fahey
Councilman Jim Vokal
Parks Director Larry Foster
The Gifford Park Neighborhood Association(GPNA)wishes to thank everyone in the City of
Omaha Parks and Recreation Department for providing excellent service to our neighborhood and
in particular Gifford Park. Enclosed are just a few pictures of the Sun Dawgs and Show Wagon
events. Included also are pictures of our new Community Garden project and annual Tennis
Program. This is important to see how we try to integrate the City programs with our own
neighborhood events and programs to multiply the benefits for everyone involved.
The GPNA works hard to support all neighborhood events and activities with volunteers and
money, when necessary. One recent example of this is the Show Wagon event. This was the
third year in a row Gifford Park has hosted a District and Regional Final, and we always add
other complimentary activities to enhance this event to make it an enjoyable family outing. This
year GPNA spent over$500 for 2 different music bands to play prior to the youth performances,
had free ice cream treats for everyone, and hand delivered 1,500 flyers to promote each of the two
shows. The shows have been a huge success for everyone involved.
The other example of a very important activity is the Sun Dawgs Program. This year the GPNA
worked with Supervisor Chris Thorns to provide additional activities for the Sun Dawg children
including tennis racquets/balls and involvement with our new Community Garden project,which
is about one block away from the Sun Dawg shack. The children have their own garden plot,
picked vegetables and painted signs for the garden. Chris has been an excellent supervisor the
last two years.
The GPNA is committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure there are positive, healthy activities
and events that are truly available for children and adults in our neighborhood. The City Parks
and Recreation Department has also demonstrated this same commitment. We realize the budget
crises means difficult decisions on cuts to programs affecting many more people than just our
neighborhood. Sun Dawgs and Show Wagon are proven programs that work for our
neighborhood and we strongly encourage you to keep them in place in Gifford Park.
Lastly,but most importantly, the GPNA wishes to express our appreciation to everyone in the
Parks and Recreation Department for their hard work. There are several individuals that we
would like to note in particular who deserve special thanks.
Jerry Flood, Park Maintenance Supt.—Jerry has not only done a great job of maintaining Gifford
Park, but he is the man who has solutions for our toughest issues,even if it is outside of the realm
of park maintenance. We have had a great relationship with Jerry for many years. He has
educated us at neighborhood association meetings and continues to be a valuable person to our
neighborhood. .
•
Ed Aldmeyer, Chief Field Inspector—The GPNA keeps Ed plenty busy with weeds and litter,
and code issues. We compile regular lists of the property addresses for Ed to work with. As you
know,our neighborhood has a significant percentage of rental property with many being absentee
landlords—Ed has his work cut out for him.
Pat Slaven,Park Planner—Pat's dedicated work with the GPNA over the last 3 years to develop
and implement a park master plan can be seen in Gifford Park. Her work helped us receive a
large grant to plant trees, bushes and shrubs over the last couple of years. She presented the
initial park master plan at one of our neighborhood association meetings early on in the process
to generate enthusiasm. It has been a pleasure to work with her and see timely results.
Tom McGinn, Recreation Coordinator -Tom has been very involved with recreation events in
Gifford Park, including Sun Dawgs, Show Wagon, Tennis Program and others. He has a can-do
attitude when it comes to getting things done with the resources available. Tom is proactive and
will do what is needed to handle difficult situations that arise from time to time. Tom has also
spoken at our neighborhood association meetings.
Tom Lebeda, Recreation Supervisor A.V. Sorensen—Tom has dedicated a lot of time to ensure
that the Sun Dawg program is successful in our neighborhood. He has also helped us with other
recreational activities. Our only complaint is that our neighborhood is missing a community
center, like A.V. Sorensen, and a person like Tom running it.
Peg Watkins, Recreation Supervisor—Peg has done a great job lining up supplies for arts, crafts
and other items for the Sun Dawgs activities. She has also spoken at our neighborhood
association meetings informing us of opportunities and programs available to our youth.
Karin Madden,Recreation Supervisor Florence—Karin picked up where former Recreation
Supervisor Cis Carlson left off with Show Wagon. Karin brings her great enthusiasm and spirit
(and occasional jokes)to the event. She and her staff, including Rick Weiner, have been great
with accommodating our neighborhood in making this a great outdoor show. As mentioned
above,we truly appreciate the opportunity to host the event and hope Karin and Show Wagon are
back again next year.
Please contact me if your have any questions.
Sincerely
ditiztx-Lt F-04.&
Chris Foster
Gifford Park Neighborhood Association
532 North 33rd Street
Omaha,NE 68131
Day: 977-4510
Evening: 342-6006
• ,
Sun Dawgs Summer Youth Program in Gifford Park
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Tennis Program in August-here Zach Rubek receives award to a pizza party on the tennis courts
Show Wagon District Show in Gifford Park
June 13, 2002
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with one of the most original acts in the competition the district show
Show Wagon Regional Finals in Gifford Park
July 10, 2002
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this year's show on the Show Wagon stage at the end of the evening
GPNA Block Party - 33rd & California (08/06/02)
to Celebrate National Night Out
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Dale Robinson of Robinson's Garage shows off his Volunteer Jenny Foster did face painting
impressive set of classic cars
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GPNA Block Party - 33rd & California (08/06/02)
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33rd Street Park Day-they were impressive again!
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the water balloon toss contest was caught during the contest
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to Celebrate National Night Out
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the information tables lead testing on 17 children under 7 years old
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The Hoop-it-Up 3-on-3 basketball had great action,includ- Volunteer Gordon Vaughn supervised the Hoop-it-Up
ing Captain Warren's team fron the Northeast Precinct which included referees and even a time clock
Gifford Park Neighborhood Block Party!
to Celebrate National Night Out
Tuesday, August 6, 5:30 to 8 p.m.
33rd & California Street
Events for EVERYONE - Bring the Whole Family
Food, Fun, Health & Safety
Admission is FREE!
'"`= ,;' Y Food - Hot Dogs, Pop, Chips (25 cents each) s
Ice Cream Treats (Free while supplies last)
Jazz Music - Chuck Kilgore and Freinds
Fire-Engine, Classic Cars All
Health Screening 0 n 0
ti-a, Fee Lead Testing for Children 7 & under
Kids Fingerprinting Ident-a-kit
®nk Soccer Clinic "
, Hoop-it-up 3-on-3 Basketball fte
Project Impact
• Rock Climbing Wall
;' '�` MoonWalk Ride
,. Board Games Aikk.;'.:."
Kids Games IIP
Chalk Painting, Face Painting & more
Information Tables - Safety, Health, Community...and much more!
Free Prizes i A,,e
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The Condors Drum Marching Band will lead a PARADE starting about
6:30 p.m. near 33rd & California St. and travel through Gifford Park and
back. We will have a place where parents and children can decorate
their bikes, wagons, and scooters before the parade - COME EARLY!.
For more Information, Call 342-6006
9th Annual Gifford Park F
ree
m: -Tennis
Free Tennis Program
For: Youth (all ages)
'a Dates: August 7 14, 21, 28
; (each Wednesday in August)
Time: 6 - 7 p.m. 1 :�
r r Where: Gifford Park Tennis Courts
(33rd & Cass St.)
The Gifford Park Neighborhood Association is offering FREE Tennis
Lessons and will provide tennis racquets, balls and instructors for each
lesson. Parents and others are welcome to help.
To be enrolled, YOU MUST complete the form shown below and bring
with you to the tennis lessons. Special prize for those who attend every
lesson. There is limited space available so call the phone number listed
below for information.
Call 342-6006
•
Registration/Permission Form -Bring this form(completely filled out)with you to the tennis lessons to be enrolled.
Youth's Name: Parent's Name:
•
Street: Street:
City, State, Zip: City, State, Zip:
Age: Parent/Guardian Phone: home: work:
As the parent or legal guardian of the child named above, I hereby give my full consent and approval for my child to participate as a
member of the Gifford Park Neighborhood Association Youth Program.
I understand that there are certain risks of injury inherent in the practice and play of this sport,as well as related activities incidental to my
child's participation, and I am willing to assume these risks on behalf of my child. I hereby certify that my child is fully capable of
participating in this sport and that my child is healthy and has no physical or mental disabilities or infirmities that would restrict full
participation in these activities,except as listed below.
I hereby waive, release and hold harmless the Gifford Park Neighborhood Association Youth Program, and the City of Omaha,
Nebraska,its Officers,coaches,sponsors,supervisors and representatives for any injury that may be suffered by my child in the normal
course of participation in this sport and the activities incidental thereto, whether the result of negligence or any other cause. Further-
more, I give consent to any necessary medical treatment in case of emergency.
Signature of Parent/Guardian:
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' ---I Gifford Park s Pride
Work,Learn and Play
� Gifford Park Neighborhood:A Great Place to Live,
Ncie.
July 2002 A Publication of the Gifford Park Neighborhood Association
Show Wagon Regional Finals and .. -
Gravy Dippers Coming July 10 I Reminder: No July Meeting ly
Mark your calendars for Wednesday July 10 in Gifford
Park for the Regional Finals of the Show Wagon Youth
Talent Competition. Back by popular demand,the Gravy "
Dippers will start the evening's entertainment at 6 p.m. ' Next Meeting
by performing a variety of music from jazz to classic Th a 1'Sday, August 1
rock. The talent competition will begin around 7:30 p.m. •
•
Once again Roberts Dairy will provide free ice cream ,:.
treats for everyone attending the event, so bring a
blanket or chair and enjoys the shows! Kids Having Dawg-gone Good
The weather was just right for the district competition Time in Gifford Park
held June 13. About a dozen acts from all over the city The Sun Dawg program is off to a great start this
displayed their talents including singing,dancing,acting summer,thanks to supervisors Chris Thorns,Nate
and more. Many thanks to the band Surcos who played Ruffino,and Kim Knauf. Many thanks to Tom
Latin-American folk music to begin the evening. We McGinn,Peg Watkins, and Tom Lebida with City
wish to thank Roberts Dairy for donating the fudge Parks and Recreation for running a smooth opera-
bars. Special thanks go to Karen Madden(Florence tion here in Gifford Park. The GPNA is providing
Community Center Supervisor)who now handles the tennis racquets and balls for the kids. Also,GPNA
City Show Wagon, and Rick Weiner who handles members Carlos and Maria De Estrada paid for a
sound. Thanks also to judges Brian Kokensparger and community garden plot for the Sun Dawg participants
Jan Franks who live in the neighborhood. to work with. Please consider stopping down at the
Sun Dawg shack any weekday from 10 a.m."to 4
...` a — -- „_.— p.m.to help with activities. By the way,thanks to the
k ��„�- t „�.�.,„: A 'A , F City for waiving the$i 0 fee!
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A nice-sized crowd was on hand to enjoy musical acts �"', ,I �•.. 'r, l `; ' ' '
4
like the one shown in the picture above. The * , : a,'�� r ,b
entertaining acts and the beautiful weather combined
to make it a wonderful summer evening in the park! The Gifford Park Sun Dawg kids are having a
great time this summer, courtesy of the City of
Omaha Parks & Recreation Department. The
Happy 4th • • . Sun Dawg program provides fun, safe, and
supervised summer activities for Omaha youth
of July! Dawg--�� ages 6 - 1 S. There are 39 Sun sites
. throughout the city.
+
GPNA Newsletter Page 8
Election Of Officers Held.At June Meeting OPD Reveals Plans '
At the June GPNA general meeting,the slate of officers for 2002-2003 chosen For Neighborhood
by the Nominating Committee was presented to the membership for a vote. Representatives from the GPNA
The following members were elected unanimously: President-Peter met with Captain Thomas
Cihunka,Vice-President- Terry Wilwerding, Recording Secretary- Ron Warren and other officers from
Frey,and Treasurer-Dana Carlton-Flint. The GPNA would like to thank the Northeast Precinct on
Vicki Frey for serving as recording secretary for the last two years. Con- Wednesday,June26. Captain
gratulations to this year's officers,and best wishes for a successful tenure! Warren indicated that there will
be an increased police presence
Have Fun On The 4th Of July, But Remember . . . in the neighborhood for the next
• . .All fireworks are still illegal within Omaha's city limits,including spar- several months. Officers will be
klers. The penalty can be as stiff as$500 and/or jail time. These laws conducting a survey of our
basically exist because of the number of injuries,fires,and deaths from fire- neighborhood to identify the most
works in the past. They are particularly dangerous this year because of the pressing problem areas,and there
dry conditions we've been experiencing. Most injuries are caused by fire- will be increased enforcement of
crackers,Roman candles,bottle rockets,and sparklers. Most injuries occur to ordinances and vehicle laws.
children and young adults,ranging from infants to 19 years of age. Second- Please think about the areas you
degree burns remain the leading type of injury,with eyes being the most injured feel are most problematic,and
part of the body. This 4th of July,you can still enjoy fireworks,but do so by . welcome the officers conducting
attending a public fireworks display put on by professionals.(Information this survey.
courtesy of the OPD Community Resource Center Newsletter.)
Tennis Program Starts In August Neighborhood Walk
The 9th Annual GPNA Youth Tennis Program Schedule For July
will be held every Wednesday evening in Au- Please Patronize Join us as we tour our neighbor-
gust. Look for registration forms at J'N'J Our Newsletter hood on these beautiful summer
Grocery or California Tacos later in July. For Advertisers evenings. The walks will begin at
more information,or if you would like to help 8 p.m.at the locations listed
with any or all sessions, call Chris at 342-6006. below:
r 1•
i July 5: Duchesne Academy
".-•--, GIFFORD PARK NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION F''` 1 Parking Lot
4illt _� 36th&California
532 N. 33rd Street, Omaha, NE 68131 .A;_
s - MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
-r' (Please print dearly) . July 19: Community Garden
34th &Cass
Membership year. (Membership year runs from June 1 ltraugh May 31)
Typo of membership: Single(SS) Family($8) Business(s25) If you have any questions,please
call Peter at 341-7293
Name of business
Join or Renew Your
Name GPNA Membership
— -—_--— (� — . ..
Spouse Today!
(Last) Fall)
Address
(Street) (Cty) (State) (Zip) For City Services,
Telephone Number. Information, or
. (Home) (Wont)
Complaints
E-mail Address: t Call:
Can we contact you for help on any of the following items?(please circle areas of interest).
. Mayor's Action Office
Cleanup/Beautification Tennis Program Block Captain Tool Lending
Membership Youth Activities History Newsletter
Neighborhood Walks Park Merchants Newsletter Distribution 444-5555
Social Activities Tree Planting Watch Group Meeting Program
` Landlord/Tenant Issues Calling Committee Public Relations School Liaison
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NTF TESTIMONY ON OMAHA FY 2002-2003 BUDGET. 8-13-01.
We understand that unexpected economic circumstances have forced the city government to alter its budget
projections. Mayor Fahey deserves compliments for cutting positions,and.the Mayor's office and several departments are
spending less money. However,we would like further cuts that would negate the need for a property tax increase. Yes,
the tax levy rate has decreased over the last few years,but property valuation increases have forced homeowners and
businessmen to pay higher dollar amounts in city property taxes. Consider that laid off people will be hard-pressed to pay
their higher property taxes. Remember to consider property taxes levied by other local taxing authorities on Omaha
homeowners and businesses. Mayor Fahey wants to hike the property tax levy 1.5c, so that a$100,000 homeowner would
pay$15.00.more. However, factoring in the 3.5%hike in average valuation of a home means additional dollars.
We offer both short-term and long-range suggestions to cut the budget.
'S 1}0 CY
• Doug Kagan, NTF ALL CM DIST.#1
DIST.#2
• DIST#3
DIST.#4
• DIST.#5
DIST.#G
DIST.#7
CH.OF STAFF
STAFF ✓
CITY CLERK
LOBBYIST
AUG 19 '02
57)
NEBRASKA TAXPAYERS FOR FREEDOM
P.O.BOX 6452 OMAHA,NE 68106 PHONE&FAX:(402)551-0921 EMAIL:ncf@phonet.com
NTF SUGGESTIONS FOR CITY OF OMAHA BUDGET CUTS: FY 2002-2003.
1. Health insurance costs in the proposed budget represent a compounded rate of growth over the last 6 yrs.
of about 11% annually. Ask the police and firefighter unions, in the interest of taxpayers, and as a
measure of good faith because of belt-tightening asked of everyone, to consider paying 10% of their
health insurance premiums. There is ample precedent to ask city employees to share in health insurance
premiums, looking at Douglas County, Omaha Public Schools, state employees, and the private sector.
(In the federal government, there is a 72/28% employer-employee payment for insurance premiums. In
the business sector, the split is 70/30%. At the state level, the split is about 66/33%). Negotiate a
sequential increase in application of insurance premium-sharing. City employees would pay 10% of
their premiums the first year, saving$1.5 million. Paying 20%the second year would save $3 million.
Paying 30% he third year would save$4.5 million.
2. Health insurance expenditures for retired employees have risen dramatically, 29.9% in 1 fiscal year, so
revise the premium responsibility there.
3. Save on prescription costs by eliminating the middle men. Many large corporations are self-insured.
Savings: $200,000-$300,000 on current prescription costs. No changes necessary to union contracts, as
no benefits are removed.
4. Stop vacation and sick leave benefits given in lump cash sums to retirees for accumulated sick leave and
vacation time.
5. Now, labor contracts become negotiated months before the budget is set, allowing taxing authority
officials to say that they cannot cut labor costs for the budget, because contracts are already signed.
Urge the mayor to negotiate and sign these contracts AT budget time, so that the taxpayers will have
more leverage in keeping wages out of the inflationary spiral.
6. Remove funding for ALL 120 city jobs frozen for the next fiscal year
7. Set pay raises for department directors at the current rate of inflation according to the Consumer Price
Index.
8. The City Council should pass on its scheduled salary increase.
9. The Public Works Dept. should purchase barricade materials used in construction zones instead of
leasing them at expensive daily rates from outside companies. Street construction seems to move slowly
in the city.
10. Increase ticketing of Omahans who place other states' license plates on their cars.
11. Consolidate departments like the Parks Dept. with similar county departments.
12. Golf course operations are losing money and will see a growing deficit through 2003, so privatize them.
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