Dateline: July 17, 2008

Expenses squeeze city finances

Rising fuel costs are putting Clarendon’s finances in a vice, according to city officials.

With increasing expenses outpacing revenues, the Board of Aldermen approved moving a $132,000 certificate of deposit into the city’s general fund during their regular meeting last week.

The city has three months left in the fiscal year, and officials are optimistic that the infusion of cash will help the city along that far.

“We hope it will last, but it’s going to be close,” Mayor Mark White said. “Hopefully we can adjust the budget.”

White said there is nothing wrong with the city’s budget as it was approved.

“The problem is that revenue has stayed the same, but expenses have gone up dramatically,” the mayor said, specifically citing fuel and supplies – such as pipe and water meters.

To help them deal with the financial problem, city officials will have a representative of the Texas First Group at next Tuesday’s regular meeting. That group is comprised of former and retired city managers who provide interim services and help cities find ways to save money, the mayor said.

“Several area towns have used them and are impressed,” he said.

The mayor said the city is not in danger of being broke and also said there is $200,000 still left in the city’s reserve.

The city also has other funds on hand, but those monies have been set aside for grant matches or other dedicated expenditures.

In other city business, the board considered a plan and time schedule to repair a house at 719 W. Sixth, which the city had previously ordered removed or destroyed. The plan, drawn up by the city attorney and an attorney for the property owner and modified by the board, calls for exterior work to be done first, including repairing siding, windows, and the roof. Aldermen agreed to remove a requirement that the interior of the house must be finished and added “clean up property.” If the work is not completed as stated, the city will take action.

An ordinance regarding trucks on residential streets was discussed again. A sample ordinance was given to the city attorney and will be discussed at the next meeting.

Aldermen approved a motion to revoke Ordinance 371 which governs electronic signs.

The board accepted a bid from Edward Butler for property sold in a recent sheriff’s sale.

A lease agreement with James F. Clifford and the Estate of John T. Clifford for the building which houses the municipal court was approved as modified.

City Superintendent Jim Roberts said city engineers are gathering information on the seal coat project. Included in this project would be portions of Sims, Allen, Third, and Fourth streets at a cost of $3 per square yard. The work would begin in early September.