Although a decline in sales tax revenue has been factored into the city's budget, numbers could be even worse than anticipated, said finance director John Adams after the June 9 City Council meeting.

Sales tax revenue at this time is well below the 2007 level, said city economic development manager Gary Wartik.

The sales tax loss is $6 million- - close to 20 percent. Much of the loss is due to the auto mall, Wartik said. Sales at The Oaks mall have remained even.

Muvico, the new luxury 14screen cinema center, is also doing well, he said.

Stores at Janss Marketplace have been holding their own and seem to be doing remarkably well even though Mervyns, Linens 'n Things and Shoe Pavilion all closed last year and haven't been replaced, Wartik said.

"It's a tough economy to have space on the market, but Janss Marketplace is a good location— it's outdoors, family friendly, and there are good values there," said Sandy Sigal, president and CEO of New Mark Merrill Companies, manager of the shopping center.

Janss Marketplace is going full speed ahead providing free weekly summer concerts, family movie nights and a big Fourth of July celebration for the community, said marketing director Heather Danko.

—Nancy Needham