Politics
(2009-09-25)
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Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels.
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"The conclusion was it's not just raining, we're kind of in the monsoon. So, it's an appropriate time to use this money, which was set aside exactly for this purpose," Dively says.
The plan spends most of the 30 million dollar reserve. At the same time, he projects more cuts are likely next year, when a new mayor takes office. Here's Nickels' deputy, Tim Ceis.
"There are challenges ahead they will have to deal with, there's no doubt," Ceis says. Even a modest economic turnaround will still mean the likelihood of budget cuts next year, as well, according to a budget memo distributed by the mayor's office.
Meanwhile, Ceis points out areas of the budget Nickels is particularly proud of, including sustained funding for direct human services, and the addition of 21 police officers.
Nickels presented his budget to the city council before a packed auditorium, in what amounted to a farewell speech. "The path to progress may not be even, may not be straight. But we have walked this road together, and it has been a wonderful journey. Thank you, and God bless our home, Seattle." With those closing remarks, Nickels was given a standing ovation by the crowd of mostly city employees.
The council will hold public hearings on the budget next month. Gary Davis, KPLU News, Seattle.
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Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels' Proposed 2010 Budget
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