Seattle City Councilmembers will join Mayor McGinn and community organizations for two budget-related public hearings. The first hearing is on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 at the New Holly Gathering Hall 7054 32nd Ave South.

Based on preliminary projections, the City of Seattle faces a $50 million general fund deficit for 2011, as a result of continued economic turmoil. In addition, revenues for 2010, are expected to be $10 million less than anticipated. In the face of these shortfalls, the City of Seattle faces some very difficult budget decisions in the coming months. Residents are invited to make their voice heard.

Balancing our city’s budget in tough times requires a great deal of direction, constructive input from citizens and the careful ordering of priorities.

Be there at 5 p.m. for the Sign-in, in time for the 5:30 p.m. public hearing.

The second hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 4, 2010 at the North Seattle Community College cafeteria located at 9600 College Way North. Here too there's a 5 p.m. Sign-in followed by the 5:30 p.m. public hearing.

Seattle City Council meetings are cablecast live on Seattle Channel 21 and Webcast live on the City Council’s website at http://www.seattle.gov/council/. Copies of legislation, archives of previous meetings, and news releases are available on http://www.seattle.gov/council/. Follow the Council on Twitter at twitter.com and on Facebook at Seattle City Council.