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Regular City Council Meeting Monday, December 21, 2009 Page 9 presenting another challenge; and stressed the confidentiality of the census for both citizens and non-citizens. Mr. Dolan reviewed the proposed timing of the census; and advised that jobs re- mained available for anyone interested, both full or part-time; and encouraged those listening to call 1-866-861-2010 for more information about a job. Mr. Dolan asked that the City consider hosting "Be Counted" questionnaires and forms for residents; in addition to other promotional materials available for use by distribution and/or for the City's website. Mr. Dolan encouraged the City to form "Complete Count" committees to encourage residents to complete their census forms. Discussion among Councilmembers and Mr. Dolan included the City's willingness to assist in getting full participation for the census; and the availability of drop-in arti- cles for use on the City's website, as well as links (census.gov.2010census). At this time, after a brief discussion and by consensus, Mayor Klausing further amended to- night's agenda to discuss and take action on Business Items 12.a - c related to the 2010 Budget and Levy. 12. Business Items (Action Items) Finance Director Chris Miller noted that the City Council was requested to adopt four 2010 levy and budget-related resolutions at tonight's meeting, as detailed in the Request for Council Action dated December 21, 2009. Mr. Miller reviewed rationale for the City Manager-recommended budget; permanent spending reductions from 2003 to present; budget variances for property tax-supported programs from those adopted for the 2009 budget; and reinstatement of $40,000 to the Park Improvement Program (PIP) and rein- statement of the outdoor ice skating rinks since previous discussions. Mr. Miller highlighted the challenges in developing a budget in the current economic downturn; past budget actions putting the City on an unsustainable financial path; and past reliance on the City's cash reserves to address budget gaps in seven of the last eight years; in addition to loss of state aid and reduced interest earnings. Mr. Miller reviewed proposed appropriations to advance forward to adequately fund the replacement programs for the City's rolling stock and equipment; and new contractual obligations and mandates in 2010 totaling $1.4 million in new obligations. Mr. Miller advised that the proposed budget, while not perfect, funded the City's core programs, as supported by the commu- nity, and represented a responsible budget. City Manager Malinen concurred with Mr. Miller, noting that the process had been dif- ferent and challenging this year, as well as somewhat frustrating; however, he offered en- couragement as the City progressed with the Budgeting for Outcomes (BFO) process from 2010 onward, it would become a more refined and better process; allowing the City Council and public to better identify costs of programs and services, and would prove beneficial to the City, staff and City Council. Mr. Malinen noted that the recommended