Who's Doing the Budget Planning?

For almost 10 years (since 2002), the City of San Jose has been in an increasing budget deficit. In 2002 it was $46.3 million, today it is over $118 million. Cuts in city employee's pension programs are going to be enacted this year. That means folks like the police (it's been reported that up to 400 will be laid off this year), firefighters (who answer the emergency calls for more than just fires), and other essential city service employees will be given pink slips this year. The unions for these folks have already approved no raises for the last two years and are now negotiating a 10% cut in current salaries. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.

This is a photo of the city offices in San Jose (you saw it HERE a while ago from the 10th floor.

All this begs the question: Who has been doing the financial budgeting for this city for the last decade or more? I don't have an answer, but that might be the first job that needs to go...

I hope you're all enjoying your week. I'm working on finishing the fitness plan by the end of the week - thanks for your comments and support. It's amazing what these weekly challenges can instigate.

Peace!