Budget Basics

The City relies on several main revenue sources including sales and use tax, property tax, and payments in lieu of taxes to fund some of the most visible services such as police, fire, streets, parks, and recreation. Sixty percent of the General Fund revenues come from sales and use tax.

Despite efforts to cut costs and improve efficiency, City revenues are not keeping pace with the demand for basic City operations and services.

Net Revenue in Government Funds

Government funds include sales and use tax revenue, investment earnings, building permits and development fees, and transportation revenue. 2009 Government Fund revenue decreased $13 million (8%) compared to the previous year.

Sales and Use Tax Revenue

2009 combined Sales and Use tax revenue is down $4.8 million (6.2 %) when compared to 2008. Sales tax decreased by $2.5 million, or 3.8%, and use tax decreased by $2.3 million, or 20.3%. Use tax collections in 2009 were the lowest since 1994.