Last week, the [Long Beach] City Council passed a balanced budget that restored important services such as police staffing, library services, recreation programs (including the Silverado Pool), and sidewalk repairs. Nonetheless, the arithmetic is clear— unless we control our costs over the long run, we will be forced to cut vital programs next year and for years to come.
That is why I have agendized compensation and pension reform for the Âupcoming City Council meeting this Tuesday, Sept. 18 at 5pm at City Hall. Under this proposal, we would reform compensation (including pensions) for our employees so as to prevent draconian future cuts such as closing libraries and eliminating recreation programs. I am committed to fairly compensating our employees and avoiding layoffs if at all possible, while preserving the vital services that our residents depend on. This reform will help us achieve those goals.
James Johnson
Long Beach Councilmember
7th District
