Belvedere’s Growing Fire Service Expenses Raise Concerns in Proposed Draft Budget

Belvedere’s Growing Fire Service Expenses Raise Concerns in Proposed Budget

Belvedere’s finance committee is raising concerns over the growing fire service expenses in the proposed draft budget for the next fiscal year. The $9 million draft budget for 2024-2025 shows a $1.2 million general fund deficit by the end of June 2025.

City staff highlighted that there may be some small growth in revenues, but there will also be a slight increase in spending, particularly with the city’s fire services contract. The draft budget projects general fund revenues at $9.1 million, but expenses and outgoing transfers add up to $10.3 million, a 5.8% increase over the current year budget.

Most of the city’s income is allocated for costs related to fire protection, police services, and public works. Additionally, $1.1 million is planned for capital projects, including the seawall and retaining wall projects. The retaining walls along Beach Road are a top priority, with $175,500 set aside for the project in the draft budget.

One significant change in costs is a 7.5% increase in the Tiburon Fire Protection District’s contract. The fire service deferred some of its annual Section 115 contributions to maintain a consistent cost to the city. The fire service contract is expected to increase from $2.1 million to $2.4 million in the next budget cycle.

The budget forecast meets the city’s reserve goals, but concerns remain about the deficit in the budget. The City Council is set to review the draft budget at its May 13 meeting, with a public hearing scheduled for June 10. The new fiscal year begins on July 1.

City officials and committee members are working to address the concerns raised by the growing fire service expenses and the general fund deficit in the proposed budget. Stay tuned for updates as the budget review process continues.