Fiscal Update Archives

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INTRODUCTION

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Redwood City residents express that safe neighborhoods, well-maintained parks, quality libraries and afterschool programs all contribute to our high quality of life.

Redwood City is currently facing a growing annual budget deficit, which is projected to reach more than $12 million annually in five years and continue to increase each subsequent year. A deficit of this magnitude will require significant cuts to public safety services, which comprise 60% of our annual budget. This could include reductions to police, fire and paramedics, which could lead to slower 911 emergency response times.

The City is evaluating options for enhancing locally controlled revenues. One option is to place a measure on the ballot to increase our local sales tax rate, which would provide locally controlled funding that could not be taken away by the State and could support essential City services, such as:

Protecting the safety of Redwood City residents
Maintaining rapid 911 emergency response times
Supporting police, fire and paramedic services
Continuing library hours
Continuing after-school and recreation programs that keep kids safe

Informational Handout

Fast Facts

FAQ

BALLOT MEASURE RR

On July 23, City Council considered a ballot measure levying a one-half of one percent sales tax (the City of Redwood City Essential Services Protection Measure) for general purposes, subject to voter approval. Council voted that this measure will be placed on the November 2018 ballot. Learn more from the documents and recorded presentation below.

Staff Report

Attachment A: Revenue Options

Attachment B: Budget Reductions Summary

BUDGET BY THE NUMBERS

By the Numbers

OTHER PENSION DETAILS

The City of Redwood City has more retirees receiving pension benefits than active employees contributing towards benefits.

All City employees enrolled in the California Public Employee’s Retirement System (CalPERS) are classified as either safety (public safety such as firefighters and police officers) or miscellaneous (all non-sworn personnel).

The City has more retirees receiving pension benefits than active employees contributing toward benefits. This is common in California for a city that has been in existence for a long time. Statewide, the population of active employees is declining.

Retiree Pension Liability
Miscellaneous Employees	Safety Employees
61%	71%

Source: 2016 CalPERs valuation for City of Redwood City

As of the most recent CalPERS valuation (2016), the City has funded 63% of its pension liability

Redwood City has been a leader in the State by proactively addressing pension cost increases. City employees now contribute up to 18% of their salary to help cover their pension. This is among the highest employee contribution rates in the Bay Area region and the State. Redwood City has a three-tier pension system where newer hires receive more modest benefits. Redwood City has also created a local pension trust to help cover future pension liabilities.