During 2011 the city spent an extra $140,000 more than its snow removal budget of $785,000. But instead of being spent to remove snow, the money was spent to pay state employees’ salaries in other departments.

Washington’s deficits are not the only fiscal ailment in the news these days. State and local governments have been hit hard by irresponsible economic assumptions and growing fiscal woes.

Monday, the Department of Treasury released its most recent data on the current budget situation. In the month of February, the government ran a deficit of $232 billion dollars, making it the highest deficit on record.

A roundup of local economic and spending news that is important to you.

How do you feel about a deficit reduction plan that would cost you $500? How about a possible government shutdown? Tell us!