The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Appropriations and Finance began its series of public hearings on the P2.5 billion 2019 General Fund yesterday.

Committee chair, City Councilor Caesar Distrito, said most of the offices and departments present during the hearing had no objections and were satisfied with their proposed budgets.

However, he noted, the Bacolod City Police Office requested an increase to their telephone and internet expenses in preparation for the computerized issuance of police clearances, while the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office requested funds for the purchase of tow trucks.

In addition, the City Planning and Development Office requested funding for the creation of a Planning Officer II position; while funds were also requested for Assistant City Administrator and Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer positions, in compliance with Seal of Good Local Governance criteria.

The committee is scheduled to continue its upcoming hearing on November 19 and 20 with other city government departments./DGB, WDJ