Proactive measures led to balanced budget  

McKINNEY, TEXAS (Aug. 6, 2009) – After taking action earlier this year to make up an estimated $5.1 million budget deficit, the City of McKinney will present a balanced budget plan to City Council at an all-day workshop this Friday, Aug. 7 at the Senior Recreation Center, 1400 South College. 

Measures to make up the revenue loss included delayed or frozen hiring for open city positions, no raises for city staff, less spending on consultant and study fees, reduced overtime and reduced travel and training for city staff. Public hearings will be held on the budget during the regular City Council meetings on Sept. 1 and Sept. 15, and Council will take action on the final budget for Fiscal Year 2009-10 at the regular meeting on Sept. 15.  

“It was apparent that we had to take action and cut expenses to make up for the adversely affected revenues due to the downturn in the economy. Though action like this is never ideal, we were able to avoid lay-offs and service cuts to residents, which is the most important thing we as a city can do,” said City Manager Frank Ragan. 

City finance staff worked closely with management to monitor costs and revenues on a regular basis, making adjustments when needed to close the year with a balanced budget. This practice will continue into the next fiscal year, which will also start with a balanced budget. 

In addition to maintaining city staff and services to residents, the city acquired new technology at an extremely reduced rate that will enable the staff to keep up with the rapidly growing population. A new fire station opened in April to serve the westernmost residents and businesses, and the city’s second library is scheduled to open this fall. Another fire station is being planned on Alma Road with planned transfers of existing fire personnel to provide much needed service to the Craig Ranch area of the city. 

“In light of the current economic conditions, McKinney is in a good place financially,” said Ragan.   

About McKinney

McKinney, Texas, is unique by nature. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., McKinney has a current population of 122,000. Incorporated in 1848, the city is located 30 miles north of Dallas and is the county seat of Collin County. McKinney offers rolling hills, lush trees, a historic downtown square and unique neighborhoods and developments. Visit the city’s Web site at www.mckinneytexas.org.