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Temple Terrace Budget Planners Don't Expect Tax Increase

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JOYCE McKENZIE

The Tampa Tribune

Published: July 8, 2008

TEMPLE TERRACE - Despite a projected $1.2 million shortfall in state funding because of the flagging economy, city budget planners don't expect to recommend a property tax increase.

However, city officials are considering a monthly garbage pickup rate increase of $1 or going from twice-weekly to once-a-week service. In addition, the city's annual residential spring clean-up may be eliminated.

The city is also exploring the idea of raising water and sewer rates by 10 percent. The city will look into promoting conservation measures that could mitigate the increase.

There is the possibility of raising Temple Terrace Recreation Complex membership dues in lieu of closing the facility on holidays, and the city's public library likely will be closed on Sundays.

"It's been the most difficult budget I've ever encountered," City Manager Kim Leinbach said Tuesday during a budget workshop. "Our departments have done a great job."

Leinbach said maintaining the city's character is a high priority as he, his department managers and city council members move toward establishing the next fiscal year's budget, which takes effect Oct. 1.

In-the-works street improvements, including those on Temple Heights Road, Telecom Parkway, Arbor Isle Drive and 56th Street in the redevelopment area, will continue as scheduled. Community Investment Tax funds, gas tax revenue and federal grants are funding those projects.

CIT funds are also earmarked for new police and fire vehicles and equipment, fire station façade improvements and a new roof and exterior paint at city hall.

Other items under consideration for elimination are the city's employee appreciation luncheon, its use of city officials for the Fourth of July festivities, and crossing guards and resource officers assigned to Temple Terrace area schools.

The city staff is also contemplating the idea of not funding Fourth of July fireworks. Instead, it would ask the Greater Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce to secure sponsorships. In addition, it may opt to no longer sponsor Riverfest.

Said Mayor Joe Affronti: "I think the staff has done an excellent job in trying to keep its expenses down so as not to raise the [property tax] rate this year. It's because of that and because property values have lowered, there will be no increase in our citizens' taxes and their overall quality of life will not be affected."

Public hearings on the budget are scheduled for Sept. 3 and 16.

Reporter Joyce McKenzie can be reached at (813) 865-4849 or jmckenzie@tampatrib.com.

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