Beverly Hills OKs budget with cuts in staff, services
Beverly Hills libraries will close early three nights a week, landscaping and tree trimming will be pruned, the number of outdoor summer concerts will be cut and 46 staff positions (most of them vacant) will be eliminated under a $399-million 2009-10 budget approved Tuesday by the City Council.
“The City Council has approved a conservative budget that reflects the economic slowdown and the resulting revenue losses while upholding critical programs and services,” said Scott Miller, the city’s chief financial officer.
More than 75% of the city’s revenue comes from retail, hotel and other business taxes, which have dropped in the recession.
To make $18.3 million in necessary budget cuts, Beverly Hills will also reduce community service grants, slash programs and classes at city parks, eliminate the Youth in Government program and cut back on tourism and marketing programs. Furloughs also are being considered.
--
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
