Marquette officials continue budget work

Marquette, MI – Marquette officials are continuing the process of identifying possible reductions in city expenditures. The Commission has instructed City Manager Gerald Peterson to cut $1 million from the Fiscal Year 2005-2006 budget. $250,000 of that will be taken from city programs, and the $750,000 remainder is slated for reductions in personnel. The city currently employs 184 people, and is looking at cutting 15 positions. Peterson says even though the cuts are necessary, it's still a very difficult process. Peterson notes this is the first phase of the budget-cutting process. He says at this point, the City Commission is trying to identify how it will proceed, and should have a clearer vision by its May 31 meeting.