Budget chair says committee restored $43.7 million; board agrees to continue budget debate

The San Francisco Board of Supervisors agreed to continue formal action on the city’s annual salary ordinance and the consolidated budget for fiscal year 2009–2010 after Budget Committee Chair Supervisor Avalos summarized the committee’s actions and the remaining fiscal challenges.

Supervisor Avalos, chair of the budget committee, told colleagues the committee succeeded in restoring $43,700,000 in services and reductions, while noting the city still faces “an unprecedented deficit of $438,000,000” that will result in many layoffs and outstanding gaps. He said the committee had prioritized preserving health and human services, recreation and park services, homeless services and avoiding privatization of janitorial and security services at City Hall and other city facilities.

Avalos thanked staff, the budget analyst and advocacy groups for participating in the process. The board voted to continue the budget ordinances for at least a week so members can continue deliberations and public engagement; the motion to continue passed without objection.

Why it matters: The budget determines core city services and staffing. The committee’s restorations and the remaining deficit will shape department operations, layoffs and program funding in the coming fiscal year.

Background and next steps: Supervisor Avalos said the committee worked with the Controller’s Office and the Mayor’s budget team. The budget ordinances will return to the board for further debate; a committee of the whole is expected to take up remaining issues in the next week before final votes.