The Vandalia City Council approved their current fiscal year budget at a special meeting on Thursday afternoon. The City Council voted 6 to 0, with two Aldermen absent, to approve the spending plan—which is for a total of 9.043 million dollars. At the budget hearing on Monday, Mayor Rick Gottman pointed out the budget had three funds in the red. The Tourism fund is in the red by $38,900 due to the plans including the hiring of a new employee. The Motor Fuel Tax Fund is in the red by $105,657 due to the city planning to do more street oiling for this year to catch up. And, the Capital Improvement Fund is in the red by $620, 950 due to the city’s share of the Thrill Hill Bridge project and other projects around the community. But, Mayor Gottman pointed out they do have the funds to cover the overall budget deficit—which adds up to $680,603. At Thursday’s special meeting, Alderman Mike Hobler questioned the deficit spending, saying if we cannot afford then why do it? And, Hobler added he would prefer to hold off. Mayor Gottman pointed out they do have the reserve dollars to cover the deficits. Gottman also said he was concerned with roads further deteriorating if they do not do more street oiling this year. And, Gottman also pointed out that just because it’s in the budget doesn’t mean they will actually spend the total dollars, but he would rather have it there and be prepared. After approving the budget by a unanimous vote, the council dealt with a few other issues before adjourning the special meeting.