September 30, 2009

New Budget Year; A Few New Changes

The Arlington City Council has adopted a $370 million operating budget for the City of Arlington. The budget funds a continuation of many core city services and programs without a property tax rate increase. It was unanimously approved on Sept. 22.

“This budget is presented at a time of unprecedented financial uncertainties,” said City Manager Jim Holgersson.

“Many tough decisions were made to continue our history of good fiscal management while focusing on community priorities.”

By reducing an unallocated reserve fund by $1.5 million, the City of Arlington avoided widespread layoffs and service cuts and compensation/benefit reductions for its employees.

Expenditures were reduced by $2.8 million through the elimination of 22 vacant positions and reductions in travel and training budgets.

This year’s budget process included community town hall meetings, afternoon work sessions, focus group discussions and a survey of employees.
Arlington’s property tax rate remains unchanged at .6480 cents per $100 valuation. Arlington remains a top employer with a workforce of more than 2,400. The new budget year begins Oct. 1.

A Few Changes

Beginning Oct. 1, Arlington residents will notice a few changes in their favorite environmental programs.

Fall Cleanup Days are Oct. 17 and Oct. 24, allowing residents to make unlimited trips to the Arlington Landfill for safe, free disposal of waste materials. Items such as brush, tires, furniture, carpet, lumber and other large, bulky materials must be securely loaded, tied down and covered. Proof of Arlington residency is required. Spring Cleanup Days will be announced later this year.

On Oct. 1, you will also notice a few changes in Municipal Court. Lobby office hours have been reduced one hour on weekdays and closed on Saturday. There are still a variety of ways to pay a fine or citation, including by phone, online or at any authorized payment location in the city. For more information, click here.

In the City Manager’s Office, a Deputy City Manager rotation means changes in executive leadership. Fiona Allen transitions from Capital Investment to Economic Development, which includes the Convention Center, Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, Community Development and Planning, Economic Development and Municipal Airport.

Trey Yelverton transitions from Economic Development to Neighborhood Services, which includes Community Services, Parks and Recreation, Libraries, Police and Fire departments.

Gilbert Perales transitions from Neighborhood Services to Strategic Support, which includes Information Technology, Workforce Services, Municipal Court and Financial and Management Resources departments.

Bob Byrd transitions from Strategic Support to Capital Investment, which includes the departments of Public Works and Transportation and Water Utilities.