Some things do not change much from one year to another. This could be said about Clarkston’s 2006 budget.
On June 13, city council members discussed a proposed budget of $771,025 in expenditures, up $43,945 from 2005. In revenue, the 2006 proposal alots for $779,900, also up about $21,228.
However, Clarkston Clerk Art Pappas cautions that not all the 2005 revenues and expenditures are yet listed.
He explained how some of the numbers may look like increases because the total 2005 expenditures and disbursements have yet to be added. In the end he expects the two budgets to differ little.
The council currently plans for the 2006 budget to have an $8,875 surplus, which will be placed in reserves for unexpected costs. While this number is down from last year’s, nothing is certain until the 2005 numbers are totaled.
‘There will be no wage increases for the next six months, until we figure out what happens with the numbers. It’s a real tight budget this year,’said Mayor Sharon Catallo.
Council members questioned some increases in income when comparing the 2005 budget and 2006 proposal. One example was the building inspection fees which appeared to jump from $15,000 to $30,000. Once again, Pappas said the increase appears only because the 2005 numbers are not complete.
Members also expressed concern about a proposed increase in disbursements for fire protection, up $11,445 from last year. Pappas attributed the higher number to the increased taxable amounts of land.
Also at the meeting, the council held a hearing and proposed the maximum millage rates of 13.3232 to be paid in two payments of 6.616 mils in July and December. Last year’s number was 13.3633, a slight difference Pappas said because of the increase in taxable land.
The Finance Committee met June 20 and the city council will meet again on June 27 at 7:00 at the city offices on Depot Road.

Major 2006 disbursements
‘General services – $25,100
‘Village Hall and grounds – $101,189
‘Police – $231,685
‘Fire protection – $153,545
‘Streets – $58,133
‘Library service – $37,148