City Council outlines $1.6M budget cuts across multiple departments

Glendale's city council has taken significant steps to address its budget deficit, which currently stands at $13.9 million. During a recent special meeting, city officials outlined various cost-saving measures that have been implemented across multiple departments, resulting in a total savings of approximately $1.6 million.

Key reductions include the fire department's decision to shift from annual cancer screenings to biennial screenings, saving around $110,000. The police department also made cuts by reducing a DNA contract by $60,000, while the human resources department eliminated an investigator position, transferring those responsibilities to the legal department. Additionally, the library reduced its community relations contract by $105,000, and the city manager's office cut $90,000 from legislative advocacy initiatives. Public works contributed to the savings by reducing its contract with West Coast Arborist by $200.

City officials discussed the ongoing transfer of surplus revenues from the Glendale Water and Power (GWP) to the general fund, which currently stands at 10%. There is potential for increasing this transfer, but further discussions will be needed to determine the best course of action.

As the city navigates its financial challenges, these budgetary adjustments reflect a proactive approach to managing resources effectively. The council is expected to continue exploring options to enhance revenue and further reduce expenses in the coming months, ensuring the city's financial stability and service delivery to the community.