Good News for a Great City: $1.16 Million Budget Surplus

By Dave Freneaux

    Due largely to Central's pioneering strategy of privatizing City Services, the City of Central should spend $1.16 million less than it takes in next in 2011-2012.  In a time when many cities and states are in financial trouble Central's consistent ability to operate $1 million in the black each year is both remarkable and encouraging.  Mayor Mac Watts delivered what can best be described as a "State of the Budget" address at City Council Tuesday night.  In his address he touched on many of the factors affecting Central's finances and gave explanations of anticipated changes in both revenues and expenses.  The largest single factor resulting in the large surplus is a savings of near a half million dollars due to the contract negotiated with IBTS, the new company providing City Services for Central beginning July 1.  The video of the Council meeting can be seen on CentralSpeaks.com by clicking the CentralSpeaksTV icon at the top of any page.  The 2011-2012 Budget was approved unanimously by the Council and can be seen on the City's website at CentralGov.com under "City Documents".