June 21, 2012|By Julie Scharper, The Baltimore Sun
The mayor plans to build, renovate and improve programs at 30 centers, while turning 25 others to the school system or private partners. If operators do not come forward for some of the centers, they could close.
Costs for health plans for city employees will rise significantly in January, although workers who switch to managed-care plans will pay about the same amount they do now. Administration officials say the change, which was recommended by a task force of fiscal experts convened by the mayor, will bring health benefits more into line with those offered by surrounding localities. Union leaders and some council members have questioned the financial burden on workers.
The administration says the change will save the city nearly $10 million for the coming budget year and twice as much in future years.
Young's budget proposal, which he said was shaped by the recommendations of residents, would have increased funding for youth summer jobs and after-school programs, as well as for rec centers and the fire department.
In addition to a number of agency cuts, he recommended that the city estimate speed camera revenue at the same level as in the current year. Finance officials say they expect to collect $5 million less next year as residents grow used to the cameras.
Administration officials vigorously opposed Young's proposed cuts, saying they would result in nearly two dozen layoffs and hinder key services. Moreover, they said, the charter states that any savings from the council's cuts would be considered "surplus" and must be used to lower property taxes or be diverted to a reserve fund.
Young said the mayor has a great deal of latitude in spending and could increase funding for these initiatives if she wanted to. The mayor has consented to increase funding for some after-school programs and the "Experience Corps," which hires retirees to work in classrooms.
Councilman Bill Henry, one of five members to vote for the amended budget, said he did not want to give "people the wrong impression that this could not be done.
"What doesn't work is if the mayor refuses to come to the table and reallocate the money to the purposes people have asked for," Henry said, eliciting cheers from youth advocates who had attended the meeting.
julie.scharper@baltsun.com
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