Arroyo Grande City leaders are looking for ways to close a more than 3.5 million dollar budget gap. Officials say the budget problem has been ongoing for years. Last night, the City Council discussed the possibility of a half-cent sales tax increase and more economic development. City staff was also directed to look at the possibility of hiring a consultant to help find ways to generate revenue. A.G. isn’t the only Central Coast community facing budget problems. Lompoc city officials voted last night to move forward with their plans to balance the city budget. Plans that include cuts to staffing in both police and fire departments and other agencies.
