2013 Budget Passed Unanimously

Fairhope, Alabama

MONEY ADDED FOR "SCHOOL RELATED ACTIVITIES"

After 2 new council members questioned its absence at a work session last week (Burrell and Brewer), $375,000 was added to the city's 2013 budget to supplement the 5 local Baldwin County Schools -- to be allocated however the Educational Advisory Committee deems appropriate.

Last summer, after visiting the schools to discuss their needs, that committee had requested $750,000 be included to fund 10 teachers; but since the school year has already begun, that use may no longer be feasible.

Brewer said she was satisfied with the lower amount and hoped the city would be able to include money for schools in future budgets as well.

LIBRARY LOAN FINALLY PAID OFF

The new budget also includes money to pay off the balance on the construction (bridge) loan for the library, and a 5% increase in its operational budget (+$30,000). Paying off the loan early will save the city over $200,000 in interest payments, according to Financial Reporter Rose Fogarty.

Council President Burrell said the new budget "meets the needs of the city," including debt reduction, education and recreation, employee raises and capital expenditures.


Comments

Anonymous said…
I hope they don't go back to sneaking up utility rates and giving handouts to their buddies.
MaryBell said…
Well, I guess that would fund 5 teachers instead of 10.
Anonymous said…
Fund more teachers? Isn't that what the "penny tax" is supposed to do? I voted NO.
Anonymous said…
So much for the surplus...the 7 mill will be gone soon...thanks Kant and his new band of marry men and woman. The pay raises in the budget should be public and the pay of each employee should be list on the city's website like the county's site.
Anonymous said…
"we are not educational experts"....Diana Brewer
So Ms. Brewer can you explain what the money will be used for?

Anonymous said…
We are Robots.....we must follow the Mayor.....