Austin's financial forecast is looking up. City Manager Marc Ott made that announcement during his budget presentation to council. He told them the forecasted multi-million dollar gap has been closed largely due to an increase in sales tax revenue.
“The projected deficit we told you about which was between $11 and $28 million has in fact been balanced with no disruption of services,” he said.
Council members liked what they heard.
“Basically we're getting good news that things aren't as bad as we thought,” said Council member Bill Spelman.
Ott's budget proposal calls for increases to some city services and property taxes.
“Everybody hates to see their property tax go up, said Austin resident John Langmore. “To me, I'm fine paying my fair share as long as it's invested well.”
Under Ott’s plan, residents would see higher fees and taxes. Property taxes would go up $4.37 a month on the average home of $184,484. The average monthly water bill would go up $3.84. Solid waste services would go up $1.00 for those using a 90-gallon cart and go down $.35 cents for residents using a 60-gallon cart.
“As long as we have good service, it’s worth paying for it,” said Austin resident Brian Horst.
Ott said with his proposed budget, the city will be able to fund things the community said were most important to them particularly public safety.
If approved by Council, 48 new police officers, 30 paramedics and 10 firefighters will be added. The library will get an additional $500,000 for books and materials and an additional $100,000 in funding would address homelessness.
The budget includes $600,000 in cuts including discontinuing the LBJ Fire Academy.
Public hearings are scheduled for August 19 and 26. Council will adopt the budget in September.
