Lima not in same budget boat as others

LIMA - The good news for the city's budget is that it's already seen the bad news.

City revenue and spending is largely on track through the third quarter, interim Finance Director Dan Hefner told City Council's Finance Committee on Monday.

Unlike other cities in the region such as Toledo and Findlay, Lima isn't looking at big cuts for next year or measures to plug holes in this year's budget.

"Other communities haven't faced the problems Lima has in the past five years," Hefner said. "I think with some other places, they've been growing and the bottom has fallen out. We've been cutting and we're already lean."

Spending is running about $500,000 more than revenue, Hefner said, adding that he'll take that margin in a $30 million budget.

Lima's budget runs about six months behind the national economy, Hefner said, so those responsible for funding are watching the numbers closely.

Committee Chairman Tom Tebben said he values the work of those in the administration keeping finances on track.

"You see the problems other places like Toledo and Findlay are having and you appreciate those in the administration who are responsible and reacting accordingly, because we're not through it yet," Tebben said.