Rental assistance and clerk's office are top council tweaks in tight city budget

The latest: A straw poll showed early support for just over a dozen changes to Johnston's budget totaling $18.7 million — a sliver of the city's overall spending plan.

Reality check: Where that money will come from remains unclear.

State of play: Some of the largest proposals earning widespread backing were $7 million for rental assistance, up to $4.5 million for the clerk and recorder's office and $2 million for safe routes to school.

• Funding health inspectors, adding to the immigrant legal services fund and restoring parking magistrates' staff were smaller line items popular among council members.

Zoom in: At least nine proposals got a supermajority — meaning a higher chance for a successful amendment because it's enough to override a veto.

The intrigue: Some members are trying to reverse earlier cuts to city agencies, but others, including Councilmember Kevin Flynn, said reductions will be necessary to ensure a balanced bottom line.

What's next: Council will send a letter to the mayor outlining proposed changes. His office needs to release a final budget by Oct. 20.