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Sanders to unveil budget proposal

San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders will unveil his budget proposal this afternoon. He has released elements of it every day this week. Today's he's expected to announce the overall package. KPBS reporter A

San Diego Mayor Jerry Sanders will unveil his budget proposal this afternoon.
He has released elements of it every day this week. Today's he's expected to announce the overall package. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

The mayor's budget so far contains less of the "pain" that Dan Diego residents might expect from a city in financial crisis. San Diego has a billion dollar pension deficit with a required minimum payment of $160 million this year.

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However the mayor proposes to supplement city fund money by borrowing. Today's announcement that interest rates are rising is likely to effect the calculations to balance the budget.

City services will NOT be cut under Sanders' proposed plan. After several years of cuts, the budget for libraries, parks and rec. centers will remain virtually the same. The mayor says he is unable to restore library or pool hours this year, but will not be cutting them further.

Public safety is the biggest winner. Sanders, the former city police chief, proposes to earmark $24 million more to the police department and $13 million more to upgrade fire stations.

City council will begin debate of mayor's proposed budget next week and public hearings are scheduled through may. Alison St John, KPBS news.