Repke seeks clarity in budget

Last month, the Whitefish City Council approved the 2016 budget.

The headlines of the budget are good: 2.08 percent increase in the cost to run the city, an increase in cash reserves, and a 3.85 percent increase in property tax revenues. These increases seem reasonable and prudent, especially in light of the city’s growth.

That said, as a candidate for city council I have had a number of people say to me that Whitefish finances are mismanaged. I have attended a number of city council and working group meetings and don’t see it that way, but I do see how people are uncertain about the budget — it’s confusing. The city posts the budget, in quite a bit of detail, on its website so anyone can look at it. That’s great, but frankly it’s not easy to understand.

I spent many years turning financial data into meaningful information and believe I can apply that experience to my work as a council member. Better information improves decision making and reduces uncertainty and mistrust. If elected to council, I will work to get that done.

— John Repke is a candidate for Whitefish City Council