The sky isn't falling...yet regarding budget cuts for EPD, Eureka City Manager does confirm pending cuts to all departments will be proposed

I just spoke with Eureka City Manager Greg Sparks. He explained that city staff is working with all city departments on the 2015-16 budget 'to bring the city budget into balance." The management team will then submit their recommendations to City Council members. And the public will have their chance to weigh in.

"Over the last number of years, revenue has been stagnant," said Mr. Sparks. "Sales tax which is an important source of revenue has declined. Income has not kept up with inflation." The passage of Measure Q was helpful in staving off a loss of 2.4 million dollars, he said.

"Pension costs are a difficult part of the budget," said Mr. Sparks. "For some departments, pensions make up 20% of the budget." The Fire Department is fully staffed and EPD is "close to fully staffed.
Last year, there was a high level of fire and police departments not filled. Both Chiefs have been successful in getting positions filled but that is not the reason for the proposed cuts. All departments will face reductions. "

"This is a simple matter of revenue not increasing versus expenses," said Mr. Sparks.