• At a recent meeting of the Taxation, Utilization, Revenue and Expenditure Commission’s Long Term Fiscal Health Committee it was determined there are 6-10 major issues that will affect the City’s budget over the next few years. Topping the list was the funding of public safety to include police and fire. Also on the list are pension obligation, information technology requirements, duplication of existing functions, the financing of capital projects and decreasing property assessments and ad valorem tax revenue.
• The Landing is the official pep rally venue for both Konica Minolta Gator Bowl participants, Clemson and Nebraska, on New Year’s Eve. Clemson’s starts at 1:30 p.m. and Nebraska’s kicks off at 5:30 p.m.
• Speaking of the Landing, hours on New Year’s Eve have changed. The venue is open until 9 p.m. to people of all ages and will allow re-entry to those 21 years old and up.
• The City Council Auditor’s Office recently released its budget summary for the 2008-09 fiscal year. According to the report, net property tax revenue decreased by a little over $4 million. Also, the general government employee cap increased by 85 positions, primarily due to the 80 new police officers, 80 corrections officers and 38 emergency communications officers hired through the Jacksonville Journey. Overall, the Council-approved budget for the City and its independent agencies is $2.003 billion, up over $127 million from fiscal year 2007-08.