12/10/1998FISCAL REVIEW COMMITEE MEETING
CITY OF CLEARWATER
December 10, 1998
Present: Daniel Fleck Chair
Richard Lynch Committee Member
Jean Stuart Committee Member
George Byrnes Committee Member
Vacant Seat
Also Present: Tina Wilson Budget Director
Brenda Moses Board Reporter
The Chair called the meeting to order at 8:02 a.m. at the Municipal Services Building.
Minutes Approval
The Chair noted the October 8, 1998, minutes were amended, but no motion had been made to approve them at the last meeting.
Member Stuart moved to approve the October 8, 1998, minutes as amended. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Member Lynch moved to approve the regular minutes of November 19, 1998, as submitted in written summation to each board member. The motion was duly seconded and carried unanimously.
Discussion of CIP (Capital Improvement Program) and City Operating Budget
Budget Director Tina Wilson explained how CIP funds are used and the budget developed. She encouraged board members to review the Capital Improvement Program in the budget document.
The budget process for the compilation of this year’s CIP is starting earlier than usual. The Office of Management and Budget staff review department budgets on a monthly basis. Operating
budget programs are being reviewed to ensure compatibility with One City. One Future. The City Commission has approved the 1999 Operating and CIP budgets.
It was noted Penny for Pinellas funds will not be allocated as originally planned. Concern was expressed that funds to construct the roundabout and beach pool could be better spent
on a tower, for example, which generates ongoing revenues for the City. It was questioned if enough City projects generate revenue. It was felt a new main library is more important
than a roundabout. It was noted that not every City improvement results in revenues, in the traditional sense. Improvements result in a better quality of life, happier residents, and
a desire for residents to remain in Clearwater. It was suggested the City consider a “progress report” to review and learn from project results.
Ms. Wilson said the City has hired a master developer to recommend improvements and identify One City. One Future. goals. In response to a question, she said 67% of the budget is allocated
to salaries. The City’s largest source of revenue
comes from property taxes, then franchise and utility taxes which grow approximately 4 - 5% a year. Ms. Wilson explained how CIP projects are funded, reviewed the operating budget process,
and explained the operating budget document.
The next meeting is scheduled for January 14, 1999. It was suggested members contact their respective Commissioner for recommendations on topics for discussion.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:47 a.m.