City directors, departments asked for 15% reductions in expenses

Following is a letter and attachment Finance Committee Chairman Victor Schneider sent to specific City directors and department heads. Tomorrow we will publish one director’s written response to Mr. Schneider.

October 21, 2010

At the Finance meeting on October 19th, 2010 the budget was discussed. More specifically, the process for formulation of the budget was discussed. In years past, the Finance Committee has held meetings where department heads came and presented the various needs of the department. These meetings have been long and, at times, not as productive as necessary. Members of the Finance Committee have had to make decisions on funding for departments with limited working knowledge of the internal operations. This year, we would like to utilize a plan that helps eliminate unilateral decision-making based solely on how much money can be cut to balance the budget.

This letter is being sent to specific directors and department heads. Information should come through the Director if they have Department heads that work for them. If a Department head reports to a Board of Commission, they would present their materials to the Auditor’s office directly. The goal is for each to work with the Auditor’s Office to have necessary funds placed in the draft budget. After this information is compiled, the Finance Committee will review and make a recommendation to City Council.

The information for the draft budget is due Thursday, November 11th. This information should be submitted to the Auditor’s office. Attached you will find simple guidelines. As a Director or Department head, you should look closely at what the areas you are responsible for, and you will need to make sure that you have planned for the needs. It is your responsibility to make sure that all items that your department needs are covered in the information that you provide.

The city finances will be tight as they are with every other municipal, county and state government agency. If we work together, we can keep Norwood services fully operational.

Victor Schneider
City Council
Finance Committee Chairman

Attachment

Areas that are expected to submit information. Information should be compiled from each are of responsibility and submitted.

Mayor, Auditor. Law, Treasurer, Recreation Director, Health Commission, President of Council, Secretary to Civil Service

2010 Budget Guidelines

Submit information to Auditor’s office no later than November 11th.

15% reduction in all expense areas
2011 payroll data will be inputted for you at current staffing levels
Anticipate staffing changes and expenses that could be incurred - provide an outline of potential staffing changes.
Include capital expense items that you know are an absolute necessity
Include information on any contracts that you administer. Increased anticipated or discounts?

Include documentation that you feel will be helpful in the Finance Committee’s review of your budget submission.