South Gate : Higher Assessment Studied to Bridge Budget Gap

The city is considering a plan to increase property tax bills by about $5 a month in an effort to close a $1.3-million budget shortfall and avoid reducing police and park services. In the past three fiscal years, the city has lost $2 million to the state, including $759,000 last year.

Without raising any additional money, the city may have to reduce its 91-member police force by eight officers and eliminate its anti-gang unit. School crossing guards and recreation activities at parks also could be eliminated.

Officials hope to avoid the cuts by raising the assessment for the Lighting and Landscaping Assessment Maintenance District, with the money going to maintain South Gate Park and Hollydale Park. Funds raised through the district also go to maintain city traffic lights, trees and medians.

A question-and-answer session on the proposed increase will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the city sports center, 9520 Hildreth Ave., at South Gate Park. A 7 p.m. public hearing will be held Aug. 3 at the same location.