City Manager Kenny Smith presented the Griffin Board of Commissioners with solutions for creating a balanced budget without a tax increase at Tuesday morning’s workshop. “Spreading the pain” was the phrase used to describe the list of budgetary reductions and eliminations that were made in approximately 60 areas.  In cutting costs, the automated meter reading capital item from the electric fund was eliminated, and street resurfacing was eliminated.  OPEB (which stands for Other Post Employment Benefits) was cut by 20% with the intent of future evaluation.  Higher revenues are now projected due to drought restrictions being lifted to Level 2.  Also, a reduction in electric expenses, as a result of overestimations, has created extra funds.  Between cost reductions/eliminations and extra funds now projected, the anticipated shortfall of $4.7 million no longer exists for the City, and a tax increase is not anticipated.  Smith will finalize the balanced budget this week.  Public hearings will then be scheduled before the Board votes on the final FY 2008-2009 budget.  

Two presentations were given at the workshop to prepare the Board for items to be voted on at their regular meeting that evening – one by Spectra Properties LLC and one by MEAG.  A presentation was given by Tina Morrow from Spectra Properties LLC regarding the potential development of 3.02 acres of city property on Solomon Street known as the old city hall property.  Ms. Morrow explained that Spectra Properties LLC wishes to develop “Iris City Plaza” on those two blocks.  “Iris City Plaza” would be an environmentally sustainable, mixed use development.  The plaza is envisioned to include a cultural center, offices, theater, museum, restaurant, town homes, an amenity terrace for residents, and wrapped parking lots that are not easily visible.  Ms. Morrow explained that a committed employer would be bringing 400 to 500 jobs to Griffin, and historic preservation would remain a key element. Commissioner Dick Morrow clarified that Ms. Morrow was not related to him and that there is no conflict of interest for him.

A MEAG presentation regarding Plant Vogtle was given by Steve Jackson, Vice President of Power Supply with MEAG.  Jackson reviewed components of two power sales contracts designed to meet the City’s needs – one for our early needs and one for our future needs – that would be a 50 year agreement.  Jackson, along with MEAG’s Regional Manager Stuart Jones, answered questions for the Board.

The City Manager reviewed the remaining items on the evening agenda, and the workshop was adjourned.