The Detroit City Council last week approved a $1.12 billion fiscal 2013 budget that largely adheres to Mayor Dave Bing’s proposed spending plan.
The budget includes 2,600 layoffs, the privatization of the city’s transportation and lighting departments, and elimination of the human services department. The general fund cuts total $250 million. The council sent the budget to Bing, who has until June 30 to approve a final deal.
The members of a nine-member Financial Advisory Board, which will oversee city finances as part of the newly inked consent decree between the city and the state, also needs to approve the budget.
The council approved the budget 6-3.
Meanwhile, Gov. Rick Snyder last week tapped his third and final pick to sit on the financial advisory board. He selected Ronald Goldsberry, an auto consultant for Deloitte and former Ford Motor Co. executive for 16 years.
“Ron Goldsberry is committed to a strong, revitalized Detroit,” he said. “The reinvention of Michigan depends on it, and his participation will be beneficial.”
Seven of the board’s nine slots have been filled. The Detroit City Council postponed its two picks until a ruling on the consent decree.
