City Administrator: Trenton Budget 'On Target'

So far, so good.

Trenton City Administrator Jim Wagner said budgets for all city departments are "on target" when compared to budget projections created at the start of the budget year.

The 2012-13 Trenton budget shows city revenue and expenditures from July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013.

"Our key department heads are on budget, and I think it's great that we don’t have to use fund balance to pay our bills," Wagner said. "Departments have done a good job finding additional savings within their budget."

Officials presented current budgets to city council members at a study session Monday night at Trenton City Hall.

City departments including police and parks and recreation are currently under projected budgets.

Trenton Police Chief Jim Nardone said his department is currently $87,000 under budget for permanent employees and $7,000 under budget in overtime costs.

"We’re anticipating being able to make our overtime budget," Nardone said.

Nardone credits a significant effort from his officers and new 12-hour shifts for a slight reduction in overtime costs -- among other reasons.

"Our officers have stepped up and decided to be a part of the solution instead of part of the problem," Nardone said.

One of the only departments experiencing potential budget woes is the Trenton Fire Department. Chief Bruce Vick said his department is either at or below budget, but rising overtime costs could push them over the amount projected.

There are currently two firefighters on medical leave. Other firefighters have to fill for the two on leave, which causes overtime costs to rise.

All other departments including public works, the transfer station, the waste water treatment plant and engineering -- to name a few- --  are on track to make budget this year.