City Council discusses $1M CLA funding for Public Utilities and audit readiness

The Santa Fe City Council made significant strides in its budget meeting on April 30, 2025, focusing on financial management and the essential services provided by the CLA (Contractor for Local Assistance). A key decision was the allocation of $1 million from the public utilities administration budget to cover CLA services, which are crucial for maintaining the city's financial operations, particularly in the Public Utilities Department (PUD) and the Billing Department (BDD).

During the meeting, city officials discussed the importance of aligning the use of CLA services with the budget expenditures. This year, the finance department has taken steps to distribute costs more evenly across departments, with additional allocations of $500,000 from both recurring and one-time general funds. The council expressed a strong desire to reduce reliance on external contractors like CLA, aiming to bring more financial operations in-house. This shift is seen as vital for improving efficiency and ensuring that the city can manage its finances effectively.

The council also acknowledged the challenges posed by staff turnover, particularly in key financial positions within BDD. The loss of a knowledgeable employee has made it difficult to maintain timely audits, which are critical for the city's financial health. The continued partnership with CLA is viewed as essential for meeting audit deadlines and ensuring that the city's financial records are up to date.

In conclusion, the council's discussions highlighted a proactive approach to budget management and a commitment to enhancing the city's financial operations. As the city moves forward, the focus will remain on filling vacant positions and reducing dependency on external contractors, ultimately aiming for a more self-sufficient financial structure.