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Dade City's Fiscal Cuts Weren't Hard, Poe Says

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By LAURA KINSLER

The Tampa Tribune

Published: September 6, 2008

DADE CITY - City Manager William Poe said it really wasn't that difficult putting together a city budget that cuts spending by nearly $400,000 without cutting services.

Each department found ways to trim spending, and the city cut in half the amount it contributes to nonprofit organizations, such as the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce and the YMCA.

"Everybody in the city understands we don't have the money," Poe said.

Dade City's tax base had grown steadily - nearly doubling in the past six years. Higher homestead exemptions because of Amendment 1, however, translated to a $25 million reduction in 2008.

"We added $8 million of new construction this year," Poe said. "So if you don't count that, it's really like we lost $33 million just due to the homestead exemptions and devaluing of property."

As fuel costs continue to rise, police officers are being asked to "walk the beat" instead of drive. Take-home police cars may also be a thing of the past.

"It's something we're going to have to address," Poe said. "My thought is we set a boundary, and if you live within 'X' miles, you can have a take-home vehicle."

A few things couldn't be cut, such as the $50,000 tax reimbursement the city will pay to Hampton Inn and the Dade City Business Center. Each was part of a five-year incentive plan.

The city also will apply for a $750,000 block grant to pay for four new sewer lift stations. A $250,000 match would come from city's Pennies For Pasco revenue.

The public will get a chance to comment on the proposed $10.3 million budget during Tuesday's city commission meeting. The commission is scheduled to vote on the budget and to maintain the city's tax rate of $7.10 per $1,000 of property valuation after the 5:30 p.m. hearing.

Reporter Laura Kinsler can be reached at (813) 865-4844 or lkinsler@tampatrib.com.

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