Thursday, March 15, 2007 7:45 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. Clark [...]

Suggestions for addressing projected budget shortfalls through cost controls, restructuring services, and increasing revenues.

Examines why the number of candidates running in Worcester elections has been declining since the 1980's.

Describes Worcester's cost reductions and municipal service improvements, and offers suggestions for additional improvements.

Compares Worcester's municipal health benefits with towns in the Worcester vicinity, 28 larger cities and towns in Massachusetts, regional and national averages, and data from private employers.

Worcester faces numerous financial challenges in its FY05 budget and beyond.

Possible privatization of Hope Cemetery or its operations is examined.

This report examines the potential costs and benefits of a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program in Worcester.

Examines how Worcester closed its $20+ million dollar budget gap and compares those decisions with earlier Research Bureau recommendations.

Discusses the various kinds of fees and charges for municipal services, their proper use, and the methods for calculating them.