Muncie residents speak out about budget

MUNCIE, Ind. (WISH) - Friday provided a slick morning commute for some Muncie drivers after budget cuts slashed snow removal hours. Now residents are voicing their opinion about the 2009 city budget.

Residents don't want the city to make the same mistake twice. They are already losing services and they want to make sure the new budget starts off right.

"I seen people down McGalliard Street slip and sliding away. I about went through the intersection myself," said council member Jerry Dishman.

The city ran out of money in 2008 and one solution was to provide snow removal only during business hours Monday through Friday. The city said it didn't get enough money from gas and cigarette taxes in 2008. The 2009 budget is still under construction and the city could run into similar problems.

"Last time I talked to a gentleman was last week and he had no idea. It still depends on the fluctuation of the gas prices and cigarette tax," said Council President Sam Marshall.

The 2009 budget is $3.5 million over and council members are trying to figure out what gets cut.

"We need to learn to think outside the box, with respect to our services," said council member Jim Arnold.

The city council president would like the state to change the way it raises money for services like snow removal, one that doesn't fluctuate with the market. The council will vote on the budget on December 1.