Page 8 March 2012 This month’s report from Councilman Sal DiCiccio “Being better is not good enough in this global economy, and we must not settle for being one of the best. Phoenix must be known for being the best at everything we do.” - Sal DiCiccio I believe Phoenix should always strive to be the best at everything we do. Being just better and being one of the best no longer works in this world market Phoenix is about to become the best in its presentation of the budget using a zero- based approach. As you know, the past two years I have been pushing very hard for reform. It has been a dif fi cult, but necessary, step to getting our city ready for this new economic climate. Zero based budgeting is a critical for transparency and a necessary step toward reforms to make our city more responsive to the needs of you and your family. This is a signi fi cant step forward. Phoenix is in the middle of budget season, and if it all goes as promised, the city will have a much more open and transparent approach to how it raises and distributes your hard-earned tax dollars. At the request of the council and led by councilwoman Thelda Williams, Phoenix for the fi rst time will have all programs citywide provided in a zero- based budgeting format. Every year, our budget starts at zero and all spending must be justi fi ed. Previously, the city budget presented to the community and city council re fl ected only the proposed changes to existing programs and services. You can see how that makes it hard to track. This new system should make it much easier for residents and policy makers to follow. Some of the features include: • Detailed budget and summary of all city programs. • Earlier cost estimates than previously. • Total compensation costs (which have been rising steadily – even during the recession). • Sources of funds and the allocation of costs for each department and program, adding clarity on how services are funded. • Staf fi ng for each program. • Comparison of actual spending year over year rather than just budgeted spending - a more relevant number for comparison. There are other features. It creates a better and open process. I’ve also asked the budget department to use words that the public uses, such as “sales Continued on page 16 Independent Living Personalized Assisted Living Exceptional Experiences Every Day SM 13240 North Tatum Boulevard Phoenix, Arizona 85032 www.brookdaleliving.com LEADERSHIP MATTERS Some people just make a living on the job. Our people make the difference SM . Hire one good person, treat them well; empower them to serve others – and they will find more good people to join them. That’s our company philosophy and we take special pride in the team of friendly and caring professionals who work together to serve our residents every day. As a Brookdale Senior Living ® community, nothing is more important than ensuring all our residents enjoy comfort, convenience, security and value. And whether they are working to find you the best apartment to fit your budget and lifestyle, serve a five-star meal prepared by a professional chef, or lead you on the path to an Optimum Life ® , our people make the difference. Call (602) 953-3600 or visit our community today and let us show you why and how leadership matters. ([FHSWLRQDO([SHULHQFHV(YHU\'D\LVD6HUYLFH0DUNRI%URRNGDOH6HQLRU/LYLQJ ,QF1DVKYLOOH7186$5HJ863DWHQWDQG702I¿FH523 Steve Bakken, Executive Director Real Estate Priceless Advice Know-how Knowledge Renovation When I walk into a home I see its full potential. That’s because I’ve successfully renovated dozens of them over the last ten years. As a Realtor I use that unique knowledge and know-how to help buyers spot great deals and sellers maximize value. My clients tell me I give them priceless advice. I’d love to do the sa me for you. -Kelly P . S. The photos below are my latest renovation on Lafayette Boulevard... Kelly Knapp The MacLean Team 602.882.1332 kellyknapphomes@gmail.com Kelly Knapp. Realtor. Renovator. I bought this... I bought this... Before Before ...because I saw this ...because I saw this After After
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