So that is money that is available in the event that you are not able to meet your revenue estimates to run the city?

Isn't that quite a large number?

Mr. Chairman, would it be appropriate for use to ask for a report in 6 months about how these recommendations have been made so that we can monitor that?

I remember when you took over, Dr. Gandhi, we were in real trouble, and it reminded me very much of when I took over as mayor of the city of Cleveland.

I must say today, Senator Akaka, one of the real joys that I have--and there are not too many with the economy the way it is--is that the books of the city of Cleveland remain auditable.

And that basically is for the public's understanding, that is the portion of the budget that is being used to amortize the bonds that the city has issued over the years in order to do the capital improvement and other things that you need…

So the point is that for 2010 you are estimating a flat budget.

I always tell people if you are working in city government, part of your compensation has to be that you are making a difference in people's lives that is important.

Because if you cannot compete for the people, how do you expect to bring them on board?

So that the hit you are taking in terms of your revenues would be probably the sales tax?

I think that you have been prudent, and the mayor has been working with you.

The District's progress since the 1990s has been something Senator Akaka and I have followed close while serving on this Subcommittee.