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The Schenectady City Council Finance Committee is set to hold three more budget hearings this week to discuss Mayor Gary McCarthy's proposed budget. The first meeting is scheduled for tonight at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, with additional meetings on Tuesday (October 28) and Thursday (October 30) at the same time and place. All meetings will be streamed online.
Mayor McCarthy's budget proposal calls for over $120 million in spending, representing a more than three percent increase from the current budget. The proposal includes a significant 17% property tax hike and increased residential trash collection fees, sparking concerns among city residents. During a recent public hearing, residents voiced their worries about the financial impact of the budget. Ellie Pepper, a resident, questioned the need for increased spending on the police department when crime data suggests a decline. She also pointed out significant pay raises for the mayor's and police chief's executive secretaries, according to Times Union.
The proposed budget relies on approximately $2 million from fund balance monies and includes pay raises for city staff. The property tax rate would rise from $13.38 to $15.77 per $1,000 of assessed property value, meaning properties assessed at $100,000 would see an annual property tax increase of $240, while garbage fees would rise by $104 per year.
Council members, facing reelection in November, have pledged to work towards a more balanced budget. City Council President Marion Porterfield assured residents that the council would strive for a livable budget. Councilman John Mootooveren, chairman of the finance committee, expressed optimism about reaching a compromise with the mayor. The budget process has been challenging, with McCarthy citing the loss of American Rescue Plan Act funding, rising healthcare costs, and limited state aid. McCarthy aims to finalize a balanced budget by November 1.