The City Council began its budget process examining a proposed $6.3 billion budget amid a $33 million deficit. The mayor indicated a tax rate election may result from the Council's decisions, given state property tax revenue caps. Despite financial pressures from reduced sales tax, federal funding cuts, and the end of pandemic aid, the city manager presented a balanced budget through transfers from reserves. Concerns were raised about the sustainability of the budget and the funding implications for future years.
"The draft budget was shaped and influenced by Austin residents who provided input ... which was particularly critical this year given the significant financial challenges that we are facing."
"I believe we have before us a Band-Aid budget, a budget that has Band-Aid solutions. I just want to make sure we take time to unmask all of the changes that have been made as part of this proposal."
Collection
[
|
...
]