SELMA— The first department discussed in the preliminary budget, general government, will cost an estimated $53,302.32 more in fiscal 2010 than in the fiscal year just ended.

General government includes utilities, janitorial work, uniforms, insurance premiums and other items shared by various departments.

In the amended budget on Aug. 31, 2009, the city had a total of $2,726,950.99 for general government expenditures.

In the proposed 2010 budget that total rose to $2,780,253.31.

One of the largest expenses in this item is for time clocks, about $18,000, for nine months, from January through September 2010.

Presently, hourly city employees do not punch a time clock, but keep up with their hours on a sheet of paper with pen or pencil.

“We do everything by hand,” said Mayor George Evans. There is no system to authenticaly say when a person comes or leaves.”

The system favored by city department heads and the mayor is one that would require a fingerprint, instead of punching a time card.

“That way there will be no cheating,” he said.

Other increases in this portion of the proposed budget include: consulting fees for technology, cable television and other professionals, $30,000; fees for municipal waste dumping at Selma Transfer, $25,000; and hospital insurance for 32 retirees, $15,000.