One bright spot: "Sales-tax revenues were up over last year because the economy is getting better," said Jim Welch, finance director for the state's second-largest city.
West Valley City's general fund expanded from $49 million in 2005 to $53 million for 2006, with property and sales taxes providing 58 percent of the revenue. On the expenditure side of the ledger, police and fire services will consume 47 percent of the general fund.
About 120,000 people reside in West Valley City, a diverse community that will celebrate 25 years of incorporation this July.
Because of the 2004 economic downturn, Welch said that some needs - such as fleet replacement - were put off in 2005.
"So this year we plan to purchase 40 new vehicles to replace the old ones," Welch said. Worn out copy machines also will be replaced, the city's five fire stations will get some repairs and equipment at the two city-owned golf courses will be upgraded.
West Valley City also plans to expand staff by adding two code-enforcement officers, two community-oriented police officers and two police department records clerks, along with hiring one additional civil attorney. The city will then employ 731 full- and part-time staff members.
The poor economy also forced city employees to forgo raises for the past 18 months. Whether they will receive them in 2006 remains unknown.
"We haven't announced [raises] yet," Welch said. “It depends on where we end up at the end of the year. We've budgeted for pay increases that may or may not come to pass."
Some city-owned facilities, aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the community, continue to require general fund subsidies. Since 2004, the Fitness Center has needed an annual boost of $1.2 million, which will continue in 2006. The city plans to trim back that support over time.
"We anticipate another year of conservative expenditures, and we're doing our best to maximize every dollar the city brings in through taxes or user fees. We emphasize efficiency," Welch said.
Hearing Tuesday
A public hearing on West Valley City's proposed 2006 budget will be held during the City Council meeting Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 3600 Constitution Blvd. (2700 West).
