By JIM BUTLER

The administration is hedging its bets in the proposed Alexandria city budget for the fiscal year beginning May 1.

The General Fund revenue forecast sets revenue at $79.2 million. That includes a significant jump in use of fund balance and retained earnings.

Mayor Jacques Roy told the City Council Finance committee that is due to conservatively cautious revenue projections.

He and his team believe revenues will be higher than indicated but are cautious over what at this point seems an unsettled economy.

While they expect the full $5.6 million increase in retained earnings not to be required, it is needed to balance General Fund income/spending projections.

If tax receipts exceed budget levels, retained earnings use will decrease.

The Council will hold a public hearing on the money plan Tuesday evening. The full document, including all funds and Capital Outlay, is available for review at City Hall. A waiting line is not expected.

The General Fund revenue forecast includes $39.6 million from various taxes, a $2.1 million drop from the current year plan

On the spending side every dollar is appropriated.

Public Safety leads the way at $34.76 million, an increase of about $760,000.

Public Works takes $13.33 million, about $100,000 or so more than the current fiscal year forecast.