Imagine a world without school crossing guards or security screening at the courthouse — a city so strapped for cash it closes one of its fire stations and eliminates life insurance for its retired workers. That’s the disaster scenario outlined in Budget Memo 7, which outlines budget cuts that were considered this year but rejected.

“The attached list reflects every item that was considered during the process,” wrote budget director Nelsie Smith. “In some cases, an item was subsequently withdrawn by the department and replaced with a different option.”

Late last year, the city manager directed city agencies to identify a number of potential cuts. Budget officials considered the list in January and put together their own list of potential cuts. That list was later revised to the $13.8 million worth of budget reductions City Manager Rashad Young recommended late last month — a set of cuts that took advantage of potential budget reductions outlined in the disaster scenario.

“For example, the entire inmate work detail program was considered for elimination,” wrote Smith. “Ultimately, one detail was eliminated, both the other two, which are reflected on this list, are still funded in the budget.”

THE LIST OF REJECTED CUTS may be a forecast for reductions next year. If the economy is sluggish, and city officials have to revise their revenue expectations, Alexandria City Council members may be facing a future where they have to reduce courthouse security or parking enforcement. Last year, for example, the original forecast was for a $9 million shortfall. But council members ended up facing a $31 million shortfall. The projection for next year’s shortfall is $14 million, although that number may well rise if the economy tanks.

“Let’s not make our problem worse by adding more money to the operating budget. The way we can make it better is by making capital investments,” said Councilman Justin Wilson. “If we were to grab a project that is funded next year and fund it now and get it done, that comes out of the $14 million gap.”

The list of potential cuts may end up being a crucial list as the debate about fiscal year 2014 moves forward in the coming weeks. As members of the community advocate restoring funding for mental health services or human services, they will be armed with specific cuts that have already been identified and evaluated.

“It may well be that there are some things on this list that could end up being substituted for cuts that did make the city manager’s proposed budget,” Councilman Tim Lovain.