| San Mateo County, CA | November 8, 2011 Election |
 |
Closing the Budget GapBy Steven Tatsuo "Steve" OkamotoCandidate for Council Member; City of Foster City |
This information is provided by the candidate | |
The budget can be balanced by increasing revenues, not just by cutting programs.When I decided to run for city council I attended every council meeting and budget study session so I could have a better understanding of the budget process. During those study sessions the council did a admirable job in trying to close the structural deficit by cutting expenses and carefully using the reserve. However, I feel that in the next few years it will be dangerous to cut any further expenses as it could jeopardize the health and welfare of the residents by reducing or eliminating vital city services like fire or police. Instead of cutting programs I would look for additional sources of revenue. One of the most viable sources of revenue is the measure on the ballot that would increase our Transit Occupany Tax (TOT) from 8% to 9.5% passes. This could be an increase of $250,000 in revenue to the city. I would also like to work closely with the businesses in town. A healthy and vibrant business community is a 'win-win-win' situation. The business owners thrive, the residents have more choices and the city recovers more revenue in the form of sales tax. |
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Created from information supplied by the candidate: November 3, 2011 04:43
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