Politics & Government

Lake Forest Council to Consider $31.7-Million Budget

The City Council will discuss the 2011-12 budget for Lake Forest.

While many cities in California are desperately trying to climb out of a budget hole, Lake Forest is ready to pass a balanced budget of $31.7 million for 2011-12.

The city expects to garner $32 million in revenue during that fiscal year, and if it does, it will stay in the black.

"The 'new normal' economy will continue for the foreseeable future, as the city adjusts to the sustained economic downturn and the subsequent impact on revenues and expenditures," wrote City Manager Robert Dunek in a letter to the council summarizing the budget.

Find out what's happening in Lake Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Despite the economic downturn and resulting drop in revenue, Lake Forest is in a position to weather the sluggish financial markets, Dunek forecasts.

"Despite these challenges, the city is in solid financial condition and will continue to make investments in the quality of life of the community, even though the effects of the previous recession and loss of a few businesses have reduced the city’s revenue base," he said.

Find out what's happening in Lake Forestwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Some of the budgeted capital projects include infrastructure works, such as closing the gaps on Alton and Rancho parkways and citywide traffic synchronization.

Developing the city's sports park is also budgeted in the $31.7 million.

Lake Forest also plans to add new services, such as the acceptance of credit cards for payment of city fees and online access to imaged copies of city records on the city’s website.

The City Council meeting is at 7 p.m. Tuesday at . 


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