City in better shape than previous year

The Willows City Council will meet today to review its operating budget for 2012-13.

Finance Director Tim Salisbury said the first six months of the year have resulted in a deficit of about $31,000.

The financial picture is significantly better than for the same time period last year, Salisbury reported, when the city was in the red by about $112,000.

Salisbury said the primary reason for the difference is an increase in sales tax, which is up about $88,000.

On the down side are franchise fees, which are about $14,000 lower than last year .

Interest is also down by about $9,000.

The meeting will begin at 11 a.m. in the council chambers at City Hall, and it is expected to last at least two hours.

Also on the special agenda is a request to begin recruitment for another police officer, and a request to start contract negotiation with the Willows Employees Association.

The City Council will also discuss the replacement of the banner poles on Sycamore street.