Lakewood City Council Passes Budget for 2013

On Monday night, Lakewood City Council approved the city's 2013 budget. The budget includes about $33 million in expenditures in the general fund, which outlines spending for the general government, public works, public safety and human services across the city.

Lakewood Patch pointed out in November that the city will have less to work with in 2013—the projected budget is more than $2 million less than the city’s 2012 budget. 

But the budget is a fluid document, one that can change at any point throughout the year. The version passed on Monday simply creates a framework. 

So what are some of the variables in the budget?

Jennifer R. Pae, director of finance, said the city would be watching proposals at the state level, like House bill 601, which could affect city funding. 

And Councilwoman Mary Louise Madigan noted that negotiations with the city’s unions are coming up next year. 

There are no layoffs planned in the budget, but the city is dealing with some unexpected retirements because of a change in pension laws, Pae said. 

For more:

• No Layoffs Expected at City Hall in 2013