May 16, 2008

Mayor Chuck Reed

Mayor Reed is looking for ideas

For six years, San Jose has spent more than it took in. And the seventh year is facing a $22.3 million shortfall. With the seventh straight year of deficits in the City’s operating budget, Mayor Chuck Reed and the San Jose City Council will be listening to residents in every City Council district for ideas on how to make ends meet.

The meeting for District 8 will be Tuesday, May 27 at 6:30 p.m. at Evergreen Branch Library, 2635 Aborn Road. The community meetings are open to the public.

“Our expenses continue to go up faster than our revenues. Over the next five years, San Jose’s operating budget deficit is projected to total $137 million,” Mayor Reed said. “We are working hard to solve this structural budget deficit. It’s important for residents to get involved and share their ideas for cutting costs, increasing revenues and delivering services more efficiently.

“We are required by law to have a balanced budget. It’s important that the City Council hear from the people of San Jose as the choices we make to solve the structural budget deficit could have an impact on essential services such as police, fire, parks and libraries,” said Mayor Reed.