Jan. 1, 2008 — Before it makes final approval to add a tax measure to the June 3 ballot, the Susanville City Council is asking for residents to fill out a survey prioritizing the city’s needs. Residents will find the survey in their December utility bill.

“It will give voters a level of comfort that they know how their money is spent,” said City Administrator Rob Hill.

Discussions for the city measure center on a 0.5 percent increase that would generate about $864,000 annually. According to Hill, the amount of additional revenue would help the general fund substantially.

The survey reads, “The city of Susanville’s annual budget is balanced. However, it has become increasingly difficult to maintain historic service levels due to costs increasing faster than revenues.

“To provide for better long-term decision making and planning, the city has instituted a long-range financial planning process.

“Through this process it is obvious that with limited resources, it is increasingly important to prioritize the city’s service and infrastructure needs.”

The survey outlines 11 priorities. The resident needs only to place the number one through 11 on the line next to the priority. Number one means the highest priority should be given.

•Street maintenance and repair.
•Reinstate recreation programs and events and expand parks.
•Hire additional fire personnel.
•Hire additional police personnel.
•Upgrade aging public-safety equipment.
•Upgrade code enforcement, nuisance and weed abatement.
•Transportation projects, including improved signalization, signage and addressing town hill problems.
•Establish emergency reserve fund equivalent to 25 percent of annual operating expenses.
•Promote commercial development and economic growth.
•Construct and operate an aquatic facility with other community partners.
•Provide our own ideas and priorities

If the measure appears on the ballot, advisory measures will also appear on the ballot. Advisory measures would reflect the prioritized results of the survey. Only a majority approval is necessary for a sales-tax increase.

The election costs are estimated at $40,000, excluding staff time.