City Budget Principles; NE 8th Partial Closure
City Budget Principles
The City of Bellevue is preparing an operating budget for the 2019 biennium and a Capital Improvement Program for 2019-25. A public hearing was held on August 6th and staff representatives from the Bellevue Chamber and Bellevue Downtown Association were on hand to offer a business perspective.
The single most important factor which emerged from our joint budget task force review, was the forecast of City expenditures outpacing revenues by 2021, dipping into the City’s historical 15% ending fund balance.
Consequently, we offer the following recommendations:
- Take steps to control operating costs in the coming biennium;
- Preserve existing levels of service for current adopted programs;
- Maintain existing sources and levels of taxation for general government;
- Preserve the 15% Ending Fund Balance to ensure adequate reserves;
Align revenues with adopted Council and business community priorities such as staffing Fire Station Ten and addressing the unfunded Law Enforcement Officers and Fire Fighters pension liability.
Stay tuned for another public hearing in November; In the meantime, we’ll be back with more detailed comments in writing next month.
NE 8th Partial Closure
As previously noted on this page, work to replace the Kelsey Creek Culvert under NE 8th Street is underway to improve fish passage and the long-term physical integrity of this busy major arterial.
A partial roadway closure between 132nd NE and 134th NE is planned for August 15th – 31st. Get additional details and review a map on the City’s website.
Environmental Services Commission and Diversity Advisory Network Openings
As we enjoy summer sunshine on the Eastside, we know that autumn is just around the corner and with it, new opportunities for civic engagement. Consider stepping up your presence in our community by applying for an opening on the City Environmental Services Commission through August 24th or the Diversity Advisory Network through August 20th. Business owners and operators possess valuable community-building skills, so follow your passion and sign up today.