The only contentious issue in passing the city budget during a special city council session Tuesday was travel funds for Councilmember Art Brieno.
The City Council approved the two-year budget for the 2021-22 and 2022-23 fiscal years, sitting at $81.6 million and $86 million respectively. Financial Director Chris Tavarez said the council is able to change budget items during the year, but passing the budget gives city staff direction.
The single issue the council discussed was whether to reinstate a $2,000 travel budget for Brieno, which was removed when he was censured in March.
The censure was imposed after a report by an independent attorney surfaced which substantiated claims by Community Development Director Darlene Mata that Brieno âtreated her in an unprofessional, inappropriate, dismissive and/or discriminatory manner,â based on her gender.