Documented by Kristina Mansfield
What happened: At its Wednesday meeting, the Madera City Council workshopped the city’s budget for fiscal year 2023-24.
Director of Financial Services Mike Lima gave a presentation on the balanced general fund budget that supports appropriations of $193.2 million for the fiscal year’s operations.
“This is the largest budget in Madera’s history,” said Lima.
Informational Workshop Outlining the City of Madera Budget, Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Master Fee Schedule for Fiscal Year 2023/24
During the workshop, Council member Jose Rodriguez expressed concerns about the city’s reliance on sales tax as a form of revenue, which were projected at $13.1 million.
“What are we doing to bring in more revenue outside of that? How can we help increase our economic engine in our city?”
To which, Lima said, “I think your concerns are well founded, diversification is a great goal.”
The city council will conduct a public hearing on the budget on Aug. 24 at 6 p.m. According to the agenda, members of the public may comment on the budget during the meeting at city hall or remotely via phone. Comments are also accepted via email at citycouncilpubliccomment@madera.gov.
Cannabis permits: The council awarded two social equity commercial cannabis business permits to Nebrina Madera, LLC and California Cannoisseur, LLC.
Representatives from Nebrina Madera, LLC and California Cannoisseur, LLC both made brief presentations as outlined as part of the ‘Phase IV City Council Interviews and Final Decision’ process.
Both companies say they plan to hire approximately 80% directly from Madera’s labor force and expressed interest in setting up scholarships for local students to attend Madera City College.
Council member Rodriguez requested the security company also be a local hire.
California Cannoisseur’s three presenters all hail from Madera; Nebrina Madera, LLC is based in Denver.
Up next: The Madera City Council will hold a special meeting Aug. 24 to hold a public hearing on the budget. Its next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 6.