Grand Junction City Council sets 2011 budget at $147.2 million

The City of Grand Junction will spend  a projected $147.2 million in 2011 under a budget approved by city council.

The budget includes a small increase in operating revenues based on what’s expected to be small increases in sales and use tax collections, although overall expenses have been trimmed 1.2 percent from the 2010 budget.

“Based on the revenue patterns we have seen recently and those we have projected in coming months, we are confident this budget will carry us through next year,” said City Manager Laurie  Kadrich. “However, we will be watching revenues very closely. And if we believe modifications to the budget are required, we are ready to implement additional reductions.”

At $55.7 million, more than a third of the budget is earmarked for city staffing — although there will be no increase in employee salaries and the employee share of health insurance premiums will increase.

Nearly $42 million in the 2011 budget will go to capital projects, including new and remodeled police and fire department facilities, a 29 Road overpass over the Union Pacific Railroad tracks, renovations at Suplizio Field and sewer line replacements. Another $13.4 million will be earmarked to pay back funds used to pay for the Riverside Parkway and sewer projects.

While the 2011 budget doesn’t include any increases in utility service rates, fines and fees have been increased for parking and traffic fines, some police records fees and golf greens fees and annual passes.

A $20 million general fund balance will be retained.