The public has the chance this week to comment on the latest ideas for shoring up Eugene's $2.5 million deficit. The budget committee will have a public hearing Wednesday.
Eugene has been coping with shrinking revenue combined with rising expenses for 6 years. In that time, the city has reduced costs by 24 million dollars and cut about 100 jobs. The budget committee is trying to figure out how to provide essential services and make adjustments to the budget that will have the least impact. Eugene City Council President Chris Pryor says the latest strategy includes reduced Sunday hours at the Eugene Downtown Public Library.
Pryor: "Which could save enough money to allow us to keep the Bethel Branch Library open. And then, we're now talking, at least temporarily about maybe using a little bit of that savings account to keep the Sheldon Library open, knowing that it's temporary one-time money while we consider additional revenue options to keep that library open on an ongoing basis."
The city is tapping into reserves currently. Pryor says that's not sustainable. The budget committee meets Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Harris Hall in Eugene. There will be time for public comment. People can also add their thoughts via email and at the City of Eugene website.
