The city’s general spending fund could increase by 5.8% to $3.96 billion this coming fiscal year. This week, city manager Eric Walsh presented the proposed fiscal year 2025 budget to City Council + we’re here to turn the 52-slide presentation into a quick morning read.
Tax changes
The proposed total operating budget is $3.96 billion — up from $3.7 billion last year — and will maintain last year’s property tax rate at $0.54159 per $100 valuation.
However, there will be an increase in fees like:
- Unpermitted burglar false alarms: $75 to $250
- Raising the fee of EMS transport from $1,000 to $1,500 over two years
- 50-cent increase for medium + large trash carts
Budget focuses
This year’s budget focuses on lowering the budget deficit. Here’s what may be affected:
- Cutting $36.6 million from the general fund over the next two years
- Eliminating $2.3 million in development incentives
- Reducing the boarding home + inspection program
Animal Care Services
The plan would increase the overall budget to $32.3 million and will include allocations for 21 new positions, spay + neuter centers, and rescues and adoptions.
Police Services
Increasing to $603.9 million, the city aims to add 65 new officers, as well as new downtown security cameras.
Homeless Outreach and Encampments
The proposed budget invests $44.2 million in efforts like homeless prevention services.
Streets
The city wants to invest $122 million towards completing 1,618 street projects by the end of FY 2025, and add $21.5 million for sidewalk construction.
Affordable Housing
With the addition of $35.5 million, the funds would continue the implementation of Strategic Housing Implementation Plan.
What’s next?
City Council will review the proposal and adopt the final budget on Thursday, September 19. Have thoughts? Community town halls will run from Monday, Aug. 19 to Thursday, Aug. 29.
