Heavy Snowfall Puts Dent In St. Paul Budget

ST. PAUL (AP) -- St. Paul officials say this month's heavy snowfall forced the city to overspend its public-works budget by at least $1 million.

That figure could rise, since there's more snow in the forecast.

It also doesn't account for overtime from other city departments.

Interim Deputy Mayor Margaret Kelly says the city has enough savings to cover the expenses incurred so far.

She says the overage could be covered by dipping into the Right of Way Maintenance Fund. That's money intended for uses such as filling potholes.

The 2010 budget projected four snow emergencies based on historical data. But there have been six this year. Also, several fell on weekends, when responding employees are paid more.

Kelly said it's not clear whether next year's budget will need adjustments.

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