North Port in Denial?

NORTH PORT - North Port faces a looming financial crisis that could force it to cut tens of millions of dollars from its budget for years to come. But instead of cutting expenses, the city is spending its savings and hoping for an economic turnaround.

Without tax increases and deep spending reductions, city budget writers predict North Port's general fund will be $10 million short by 2011, with cumulative shortfalls of $59 million by 2014.

To come up with $59 million, the city would have to shut down City Hall, the police force, part of the fire department and the City Commission -- in other words, its entire general fund, which is $42 million this year. ...

Despite the problems, city leaders have avoided the steep reductions in services, wages or employees that other area local governments have taken. Indeed, last month, they approved $870,000 in wage increases for firefighters and rejected a proposed $400,000 budget cut for the police force next year.

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One less parade

NORTH PORT -- Commissioners eliminated the 2010 Fourth of July Parade and next year's city-sponsored 5K run during a budget workshop Thursday. more...

Only down $800 million

North Port officials were relieved last week to learn of the $800 million loss in the taxable value of city property over the past year.

More budget axes fall

Schools to get less money for career preparation

after lawmakers cut the $11 million budget for the Florida Ready to Work program, state officials realized they do not have enough money to pay the schools.

North Port eyes service cuts

NORTH PORT - Aside from police, fire and park services, all city services are on the budget chopping block, and cuts could come quickly after the city receives its new property assessment values Friday, City Manager Steven Crowell said.