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City budget supports funding for seniors and design law
Other areas include creek trail and sidewalk repairs
By Chantal Lamers
Mayor Ron Gonzales wants to take San Jose in a new direction with his 2000-2001 operating budget message by improving neighborhoods, supporting an increase in senior services and keeping commitments for library funding.
After a presentation by the mayor and his staff, and comments from the public, city council members endorsed the annual budget message on March 21.
The mayor's message is designed to let the public and council members know what his priorities are for the coming fiscal year. It also gives council appointees specific directions for preparing the annual budget proposal, which is presented to council members in May.
Glenites can rest peacefully knowing the mayor has told appointees to budget funds for an upcoming review of the controversial "monster house" ordinance. Other potential areas for change around Willow Glen include continuing improvements along the Los Gatos Creek Trail and resuming the sidewalk repair program.
The budget message is divided into eight areas, including a portion on the expenditure of a $250 million tobacco settlement. Over the next 25 years, San Jose will receive the settlement from tobacco companies. In his message, Gonzales suggested that 25 percent of the funds be used for anti-tobacco programs; 50 percent for education; and 25 percent for senior programs.
The mayor's other major focuses will spotlight neighborhood pride, safe communities, safe and efficient transportation choices, competitive business environment, clean and sustainable environment, personal growth and enrichment, and customer-driven government.
Dave Vossbrink, communications director for the mayor, said the final budget is the size of a couple of large telephone books and is divided into two components. The Operating Budget pays for everyday expenses, such as police officers and city staff. The Capital Budget helps pay for such projects as installing new traffic signals or building parks. But the budget message concerns itself only with ideas and services the mayor feels should take priority on the long list of budgeted wants and needs. Vossbrink said the message isn't so specific as to say where traffic lights are needed, or where parks should be built.
Vice Mayor Frank Fiscalini's chief of staff, Michelle McGurk, said council members submit memos to the mayor for special projects. McGurk said District 6 staff is working on its proposals, and where it would like to see money flow within the district.
One priority the staff favors is pedestrian safety. McGurk said staff has been working with the Streets and Traffic Department about improvements.
The challenging aspect of the budget is getting projects approved and then getting them completed. She said Willow Glen residents were frustrated when, after money was approved for a turn signal at Lincoln and Minnesota avenues, the project took a long time to complete. McGurk said the multiple components of installing a traffic signal, which include design, getting contractors to bid and installing the signal, are long processes that aren't stipulated in the budget.
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Willow Glen, California Since 1992
