2004/03/31 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

March 31,2004 While we have had to reduce staff and change some of our programs,our main mission Is very clear.We roust manage our resources wisely while still protecting our community values.The plan that I present to you today makes significant progress toward our goal,but more work from each of us will remain while preparing budgets for 2005 and beyond.We will look to the leadership of you,our City Council,to partner in that effort. We are looking fora new approach to providing employee health care coverage.We all agree current trends of double-digit increases in health- care are unsustainable.We envision an approach that will allow our employees to take mom control over their health care costs,end at the same time,provide them with resources for their health care needs.The ideal plan will provide a cost savings benefit to the City beginning in 2005. Increasing health care costs have been a significant factor in the city's inability to match revenues and expenses.We believe this new approach will be a step in the right direction to help the city curb those costs.We will ask our employees to assist us in tackling this crisis. In closing,I would like to thank the City Council and the employees of the City of Everett far their dedicator and hard work to this Great City.I would also like to thank the many volunteers who give their time and energy for the betterment of our community. This City will continue to provide outstanding service to our citizens.But we will only be able to do so with your help. I look to you,our City Council,for your continued leadership in helping make the City of Everett the best It can be. Sincerely, Ray Stephenson Mayor Mayor Stephenson gave a brief slide presentation showing current and historical trends,proposed budget adjustments and the revised strategic outlook. 103