I was recently reminded that state lawmakers still have not passed the state budget, even though the law requires passage by June 30.

The only thing state leaders could decide was to move up the date to begin withholding payments to school districts and counties; they will hold money from our local schools and our county starting in September instead of October.

I am thankful that our Simi Valley City Council has been so prudent with respect to its budget. Every year, the city of Simi Valley has a balanced budget approved by the time its new fiscal year begins on July 1.

Usually, the budget is ready well before then, whether or not there is a state budget.

This year was no different, despite the fact that the city had to reduce its spending by $4.2 million. It did so by working closely with its employees to achieve cost savings and significant pension reform, reducing the overall size of city government.

I remember well something Councilmember Glen Becerra told me when the budget was passed: “These are not easy decisions, but necessary ones to protect the taxpayers of Simi Valley while maintaining a high quality of service for our residents.”

Leadership requires decisiveness and a willingness to tackle problems and solve them.

I’m grateful that Simi Valley has leaders like Glen Becerra and the rest of the City Council.
Gary Carlson
Simi Valley