Tonight the Council finally took the last steps needed to put the FY 2010 budget in place. Since we already approved the amendments put forth earlier this month, we had only two options – to either adopt the budget or vote it down. There were no other options. Following the roll call the budget was adopted 4-3. Although I would have preferred unanimous support of the budget, I am still pleased with tonight’s outcome.
We were 8 months into SFY 2010 without an adopted budget. Delaying a vote to adopt the budget would have resulted in less savings for taxpayers and would have put us closer to the originally proposed 9.6% tax increase instead of the now 7.5% tax increase. While a 7.5% tax increase is nothing to brag about, it is certainly an improvement. More importantly, it sets the stage for greater savings next year. Now that the SFY 2010 budget is adopted, we can move forward and begin planning for SFY 2011.
As has been stated several times before, this has not been an easy process – but this is what true leadership is about – examining the details, separating necessities from desires, and making tough decisions. I commend the Council for working so diligently on this budget and being willing to make decisions that may not be politically expedient but that are the right thing to do for our taxpayers and residents.
The adopted budget will not be detrimental to the operation of the City. Rather, it will force us all to live within our means and be more creative and efficient in our operations. Plainfield’s finest will be able to continue to serve and protect, Public Works will continue to plow our streets, and the Recreation Department will continue to serve our kids and will not need to cut a single program. This budget may not be ideal but our taxpayers cannot afford a nearly 10% tax increase. As has become our motto, we must all share in the pain.
.
