Council approves $150,000 efficiency audit after sharp debate

A divided council approved funding for an efficiency audit during the Sept. 30 budget vote, adding $150,000 to the adopted FY202627 package.

The proposal prompted heated exchanges. Councilmember (S6) told colleagues he would "consistently oppose an efficiency study," calling it "wasteful spending" while the city is already dipping into fund balance. Supporters said prior internal and sales-tax reviews have uncovered opportunities: one councilmember referenced a prior sales-tax audit that netted the city roughly $1.2 million after consultant fees.

Councilmember (S10) moved to fund an audit and, after discussion on scope and cost, the council approved $150,000 as an amendment to the budget. The motion passed during the final roll-call of the budget adoption process. Staff were directed to return with an audit scope and vendor estimates.