City looks at utility rate hikes, cuts to fire prevention City looks at utility rate hikes, cuts to fire prevention (May 07, 2004)

Council debates ways to balance budget

By Grace Rauh

The Mountain View City Council considered utility rate increases and debated the merits of fire safety programs at a study session Tuesday night.

The city is considering fee increases and program cuts to balance its challenging budget.

One of the more contentious issues was a recommendation by city staff that the city cut one building inspector position from the Fire Department's Multi-Family Housing Inspection Program. Staff also recommended the council replace the current inspection system -- in which regular inspections are done throughout the city -- with one that is triggered by complaints or referrals.

John Miguel, president of the Mountain View Professional Firefighters union, urged the council to keep cuts away from the inspection program, which he credits with creating better fire security and keeping the city's infrastructure in tip-top condition. Every fatal fire that Miguel has witnessed occurred at homes where a smoke detector was removed, he said. Building inspectors check on fire alarms to ensure they are working.

"I'm afraid we are going to let this slip past," he said.

Council member Nick Galiotto spoke out against recommended cuts for the inspection program as well. He said he wants the program to continue with both inspectors, adding, "I just don't think a complaint-based program is what this community needs."

Council member Mike Kasperzak also expressed concern over adopting a complaint-based inspection program. But the council does "have to look at changing things," he said.

The council has tentative plans to squeeze in a discussion on utility rate increases, cuts to Fire Department programs, and other budget-related issues at meetings on May 18 and 25. The utility rate increases being considered are 5 percent for water, at least 9 percent for wastewater and 2 percent for solid waste.

The council is scheduled to adopt a budget on June 8.

E-mail Grace Rauh at grauh@mv-voice.com

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