Budget Investment Technology 2024/06/03
Homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse are some of the most
significant problems in our state and our region. The Commission would like to
encourage the City Council to continue its efforts to address the homelessness,
mental health, and substance abuse crises. This includes City outreach to
connect individuals experiencing homelessness, untreated mental health issues,
and substance abuse disorders with supportive services and shelter to help assist
them, as well as the City Attorney’s community prosecution unit for those who
violate City ordinances. As homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse
are problems throughout Southern California, the City should also continue its
efforts with regional partners for regional solutions to address homelessness in
the area.
The Commission would like to stress the importance of maintaining safe streets
and the City’s infrastructure programs. The Commission supports the City's
continuation of funding for previously deferred maintenance projects as funds
become available.
The Commission would like to highlight the investment in Code Enforcement
under the Planning and Building Department in the proposed budget. As ongoing
issues of parking and code enforcement are felt by the community the
Commission recommends monitoring of the ongoing needs of Code Enforcement.
The Commission is suggesting, after input received from residents, that the
Anaheim Police Department review its traffic response. Many residents are
concerned about street racing and a perceived increase in speeding and
violations of other traffic regulations.
The Commission recognizes the considerable effort that City departments have
focused upon Federal and State financial grants and recommends that this effort
not only continue but also expand by individual departments to fulfill their own
particular needs.
The Commission recommends annual or term-basis reviews of all City contracts
to determine if the contracts are meeting key performance indicators, which would
ensure expenditures of taxpayer dollars are being matched by defined
expectations.
The Commission supports the goals of the Anaheim Economic Development
Team to bring additional growth to the City, including outreach programs,
partnerships, and incentives to attract new businesses and retain existing
businesses. The Commission recognizes the Business Storefront Improvement
and Revitalization Programs as important methods in assisting small businesses
within the City.
In addition, the Commission recognizes the importance of the Anaheim
Convention Center to the City’s economy. With a large number of jobs and
businesses that depend on the Convention Center, the Commission continues to
urge the ongoing pursuit and growth of the number of high-profile conventions to
increase City revenue.
The Commission would applaud the continued partnerships and investment in the
City’s economic growth and development including the progress of projectssuch
as ocV!BE and DisneylandForward.
The Commission would like to recognize the diligent and thorough thought and
effort of the City staff in balancing a budget that serves the needs of the Residents
of Anaheim.
We are thankful for the opportunity to serve the people of Anaheim and grateful
for the time and information provided by City staff. The Commission hereby
recommends that the FY 2024/25 budget be adopted as proposed, and
recommends that the City Council monitor revenues closely throughout the year
and make adjustments as necessary to maintain the balance between revenues
and services.