Government Digest: May 27

Cash burning a hole in city's pocket?
DUNEDIN — Last week we reported here that the city had too much money because it built up $7.5 million in its reserve account, $3.9 million more than required by its policy to hold 15% of the city's operating budget in reserves. Now, the city has found a way keep that cash from weighing it down: spend $73,150 on a branding campaign. In a 4-1 council vote, the city hired West Palm Beach-based Wilesmith Advertising to put together a plan to promote the city to visitors. Funding comes from the community redevelopment agency reserves ($23,000), vacant position savings ($34,150), and Visit Dunedin ($16,000).