City Manager Urges Residents to 'Shop Monrovia'

From the City Manager's weekly report:

This time of year, City departments are developing budgets for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2012. Like most California cities, Monrovia’s budget has been adversely affected by the loss of our redevelopment agency and other declining revenues, like the Community Development Block Grant program. It’s particularly frustrating that municipal agencies—cities, school districts, and other agencies that provide specialized local services—continue to be financially pressed by the sluggish economy and competing state and federal government priorities at a time when residents rely on local services more than ever. 

One way our residents and businesses can help us to minimize potential declines in revenue is to shop in Monrovia. Some of the sales tax you pay on your taxable purchases from our local retailers is returned to the City and can be used to fund police and fire services, recreation and library programs, park maintenance, and many other city services. It’s an important way you can support your community and keep our local businesses strong and thriving.

I wish you a happy and safe holiday, and ask you to please continue to shop local!