Good Monday,

This is short since I am out of town at 50th high school reunion. Fabulous to see the few friends with whom I have stayed in touch. And fascinating to see some people I have not seen in 50 years who have been doing interesting things across the country and some around the world.

That said my head, heart and interest in the best home town are always with me so I have a few thoughts to share.

Sorry to hear about the storm, yet happy to hear that no one was injured and that the city is back to normal with electric power restored and debris moved or in the process of being removed.

The most important news is that last Tuesday City Council held a public hearing on the FY 2016-17 budget.  I would be holding back if I didn't say I am a little disappointed that not one citizen came to learn about the budget, express concern or support or make recommendations.

After the public hearing, the council passed the budget on first reading, but did not support the proposal, similar to Beaufort County's,  to establish a fee on automobiles (to fund about $333,000 of the $700,000 we spend annually to maintain state storm water systems, mowing road rights of way, fixing pot holes, removing overhanging trees that could fall and fixing and/or replacing dangerously deteriorating sidewalks.)

Since funds that would have been generated by the fee will not be in the budget, we must find $333,000 in cuts between now and second and final budget reading on June 28th.

Be certain we will not cut the increased police presence included in the proposed budget yet we may have to reduce roadside mowing and planned storm water maintenance of state systems.

Most importantly, we'll pass the budget and it will be BALANCED.

Have a great week in warm yet beautiful Beaufort,