Government

    Bedford City Council looked at several items, last week,  as it continued work sessions aimed at developing a budget for the 2012-2013 fiscal year.
    One item involved Virginia Retirement System (VRS) contributions mandated by the state. City Manager Charles Kolakowski’s proposal calls for an approach that will result in no pay loss for employees. The state mandate calls for a 5 percent increase in employee VRS contributions, but permits localities to take a multi-year approach in implementing this.

Those wanting to let their voices be heard about the city of Bedford’s proposed reversion to town status got their opportunity to state their opinions this week.

    But few took advantage.
    A public hearing, held Monday night by the Virginia Commission on Local Government at Bedford Science and Technology Center, drew a small crowd. The auditorium was nearly empty with about 60 people in attendance. Only a few of those in attendance spoke, with most favoring the reversion.

    It’s possible that the Bedford County School Board may not receive the $3.5 million they were anticipating after all. The school board has asked for $3.5 million unspent funds from the county, plus $700,000 of  the money left over from the Jefferson Forest High School (JFHS) renovation. The board would like to use that money for maintenance.

If reversion is approved for next year, and Bedford changes from a city to a town, the 2013-2014 budget will take on an entirely different look, according to City Manager Charles Kolakowski.
    But this year’s budget proposal has a similar flavor to recent budgets submitted to council for consideration: city services are funded as the economy continues to impact the bottom line.