February 13, 2024: County Council Approves FY 2024 Operating Budget, Sets Property Tax Rate
In a decisive move that will impact the lives of thousands of residents, the County Council has approved the FY 2024 Operating Budget and set a property tax rate of 4.7 cents per 100 of assessed value for the 2024/25 fiscal year. Despite concerns raised about the budget’s inadequate funding for school needs, climate change efforts, and support for vulnerable residents, the Council voted in favor of the budget.
A Budget Divided: Funding Education Amidst Concerns
The approved budget includes initiatives to support education, reflecting the Council’s commitment to providing resources for students and educators. However, concerns remain about whether the allocated funds will be sufficient to meet the growing needs of the school system.
Rob Houseknecht, a city resident, voiced his concerns during a City Hall meeting, questioning the need for more officers, additional positions, and addressing the city’s population growth. “We need to invest in our future, and that means ensuring our schools have the resources they need,” said Houseknecht.
Addressing Concerns: Public Safety and City Vehicles
City Manager Rachael Tabelski addressed concerns about city vehicles, emphasizing the importance of safety on city streets. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of our residents,” Tabelski stated. “We must ensure that our city vehicles are well-maintained and that our streets are safe for everyone.”
Balancing Act: Budget Breakdown and Focus Areas
The Bloomington city council approved a nearly $332 million budget for the 2024/25 fiscal year, marking a 14% increase from the current plan. Nearly half of the budget, roughly $159 million, is dedicated to public safety and capital projects such as streets and sewers.
The budget also includes funding for pension obligations, city equipment, and various infrastructure projects. The city plans about $88.5 million in capital projects, with a focus on streets and sidewalks, water, sewer, and storm infrastructure, and facilities and parks maintenance projects.
The budget emphasizes public safety, roads, dependable water infrastructure, and public well-being, including cultural arts and parks. The budget process is ongoing throughout the year, with monthly meetings with department heads and constant focus on financial reporting to the council.
In Suffolk, the district and borough council leaders have expressed grave concern over the proposed changes to Housing Related Support (HRS) in the County Council’s Budget for 2024/25. They have urged the County Council to work with them and reverse the decision to remove all funding for HRS, citing the catastrophic effect it will have on vulnerable residents and the strain it will place on other council budgets.
Councillor Mark Fryer, the council’s leader, acknowledged the financial challenges faced by the council due to 13 years of reduced funding from the government and high inflation rates. The council is also experiencing increased demand for services from residents.
The approved net revenue budget for 2024/25 fiscal year stands at £319,014,005, which includes a proposed council tax increase of 4.99%. From April 2025, owners of second homes will be required to pay 100% council tax on the property. The budget aims to address these challenges and support the communities served by the council.
As the County Council’s approved budget takes effect, the focus now turns to the implementation and management of these funds. Residents, educators, and city officials will be watching closely to see how the budget unfolds and whether it addresses the concerns raised during its approval process.