Pacifica’s many financial challenges, including finding enough money to improve roads, will be the focus of Vision 2025 and Beyond, a long-term financial planning project.
City Manager Kevin Woodhouse has introduced a purpose statement to direct the study for Vision 2025 and Beyond during the Oct. 13 Pacifica City Council meeting. All long-term City Council goals will be addressed in the study. The goals are fiscal sustainability, an engaged community, stewardship of city infrastructure, a healthy and compassionate community, environmental sustainability, a strong city workforce infrastructure and maintaining a safe community.
“We have many financial underpinnings. We have many financial gaps. We can close those to achieve the vision. This will bring those elements together and dig deep into the finances and what revenue losses exist,” he said. “Overspending is not a good strategy.”
Once a consultant is hired at a cost of $100,000 to develop the financial forecasting, the community will be involved in meetings and surveys to state preferences as to how revenue should be spent on what priority projects. The process will analyze potential ways to increase revenue and analyze economic development strategies.
“Also important is the development of a final communications product to help tell Pacifica’s story,” Woodhouse said.
This year’s general fund budget includes $100,000 to complete the project.
The council members and audience members supported moving forward with the purpose statement.
“Anytime we have a chance to make a statement, we should include ‘equity’ and ‘inclusion,’” said Councilmember Mary Bier.
“We have challenges. Put that word in,” added Councilmember Mike O’Neill.
Kimberly Williams, a resident participating in the meeting, said, “This is a great way to imagine what Pacifica is in the future. It takes into account climate change and building a sustainable future. This is a great opportunity.”
“Equity is important,” said Mayor Deirdre Martin. “I want the purpose statement to be more proactive about climate action.”
Mayor Pro Tem Sue Beckmeyer said the purpose statement should address the issue of resiliency for climate action and housing.
“We need to tie in the
finances into what we want
to do. We need a strong financial plan. We can maintain but not improve,” she said.
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