Budget Proposal

In our most recent Budget meeting for Hayden, we all agreed to publish the draft budget with a 3% increase to meet public notice deadlines. Each of us has the opportunity to propose modifications, which will be reviewed at our next meeting. Consequently, we will meet on August 19 at 3 PM to discuss possible changes to the budget.

Every budget season since I was elected, I have proposed that we refrain from applying the entire 3% tax increase. Again, I am advocating for a $26,000 budget reduction, which would permit a 2% increase rather than the full 3%. At present, we are in discussions with the Sheriff and Kootenai County Commissioners about the sheriff's contract, so I decided not to cut the budget further to prevent impacting the contract.

My proposal suggests reducing funds allocated to the city's printed newsletter, the Art Commission budget, Council members' trips and meetings, and "Professional Services." I am praying that my fellow council members will agree to this plan. I have chosen not to cut funding for the sheriff, salaries, and essential services.

One Council member has made a proposal that is more agressive than mine and greatly reduces funds for the Sheriff, but I believe that this action could limit our ability to negotiate. I didn't want to limit a future contract with the Sheriff in any way. Also, his proposal is not consistent with his voting record of voting for the full 3% maximum raise the last three years. Although his proposal might seem appealing to some, we must be careful to ensure that we won't need to reintroduce these taxes in the future as "foregone," which could lead to the same challenges faced by our neighbor, Post Falls (i.e. more than the 3% tax increase in a single year).

My objective is to closely monitor our budget, exercise maximum caution, and ensure you receive good value for your tax dollar, all while ensuring our essential needs are met.

Be aware that the budget meeting probably won't be video taped but only audio recorded. If you'd like to access the audio recording you need to do signed information request. https://www.haydenid.gov/departments/city_clerk/public_records_request.php

Thanks for reading and please let me know if you have any questions.

Sandy White

sandy4hayden@gmail.com