City of Sparks Slashing Expenses to Balance Budget

According to a City of Sparks press release, "The City is projecting a $6.5 million revenue shortfall in the current fiscal year. Consolidated taxes (CTAX) which make up 31 percent of the City's general fund budget are forecasted to be down nearly 20 percent from last year (FY 2007-2008), equating to a $4.2 million loss. CTAX revenue was also down nearly 12.5 percent in FY 2006-2007." To cope, Sparks will be laying off 35 permanent employees (pending City Council approval on January 12) and has already let go 36 temporary and part-time workers. Some contracts, city programs and services, and professional services have been canceled or eliminated. These cuts leave Sparks with 553 employees and the prospect of a balanced budget through fiscal year 2009-2010. For additional details, see the full text of this City of Sparks press release.

Update: At its January 12 meeting, the Sparks City Council voted to finalize the layoffs of 35 permanent employees. No public safety employees are included, but the City has frozen six vacant police officer and seven vacant firefighter positions. Another budget proposal, the closing of Deer Park Pool, Oppio Pool, and Sparks Marina Beach, was not implemented. These facilities will be open to the public this year.

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