The Budget and Finance Committee postponed action on three critical budget ordinances totaling over $100 million in budget adjustments, with the general fund ending reserve balance falling below the city's emergency reserve floor. Finance Director Andy Asbjornsen presented three interconnected ordinances designed to reconcile 2025 budget figures with actual financial conditions after closing the books on 2024. The committee opted to delay voting until April 28, 2025, to allow more time to digest complex financial data spanning dozens of city funds and capital projects. The three ordinances collectively address $41.4 million in beginning reserve adjustments, $104.6 million in reappropriations from the previous budget cycle, and $32.9 million in budget corrections. Most significantly, the adjustments would leave the general fund with an estimated ending reserve balance of $17.43 million, which falls approximately $700,000 below the city's 18% emergency reserve target and sits just under the 15% emergency reserve floor. City Manager Shane Minkin disclosed that department heads are currently preparing 3% budget reduction proposals as the city grapples with continued pressure on the general fund. The Medic One fund continues to struggle financially, requiring a potential $200,000 interfund loan on top of previous assistance. Committee members expressed concerns about the overall budget picture and requested additional information about Justice Project funding obligations before making decisions. #
Budget and Finance Committee
Executive Summary
Key Decisions & Actions
& Actions **Motion to Postpone (CARRIED 3-0):** Council Member Daniel Hammill moved to postpone consideration of all three budget ordinances (AB 24511, AB 24512, AB 24513) to the April 28, 2025 meeting. The committee unanimously supported delaying action to allow more time for analysis and understanding of the complex budget adjustments. **No Formal Budget Actions Taken:** Due to the postponement, no budget authority was approved. The three ordinances remain pending: reserve balance reconciliation (+$41.4M), budget reappropriations ($104.6M expenses, $10.1M revenue), and budget amendments (-$32.9M net). #
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**April 28, 2025:** Budget and Finance Committee will consider all three postponed ordinances for potential approval and recommendation to full City Council. **Ongoing:** Department heads are submitting 3% budget reduction proposals to address general fund reserve shortfall. City management will analyze risks and opportunities in each departmental scenario. **2026 Budget Process:** City must take action to restore general fund reserves above the 18% emergency reserve target during next budget cycle. **Medic One Fund:** May require $200,000 contingent interfund loan before December 31, 2025, if financial conditions don't improve. **Justice Project Funding:** Jail Finance Committee continues discussing three scenarios for city contribution percentages and duration from sales tax revenue. **Individual Briefings:** Finance Director available to meet with council members individually to review detailed budget line items and answer specific questions. #
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