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The Syracuse Common Council will hold a public hearing today (April 29) at 5:30 p.m. to gather feedback on the proposed combined city and schools budget. The hearing will take place in the Van B. Robinson Common Council Chambers at City Hall on East Washington Street. Mayor Ben Walsh's budget proposal, which includes a property tax increase for the third consecutive year, totals over $1 billion.
The budget proposal consists of a $348.4 million allocation for the city and $618.5 million for the school district. The city’s budget reflects a 2.2% increase, while the school district's budget raises spending by 6%. The budget plans to use property tax revenue, which would increase by 5.4%, translating to a 2% rise in the tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value. For a property assessed at $100,000, this would mean an additional $57 in annual taxes.
According to Syracuse.com, the budget also proposes a city water rate increase of about $5 per year for typical residential customers. City Auditor Alexander Marion has expressed concerns about increasing borrowing costs and urged for careful long-term budget planning.
Councilor Corey Williams emphasized the importance of minimizing taxpayer expenses, while Councilor Marty Nave encouraged residents to attend the meeting and share their views. The Common Council will consider public comments and propose amendments before the final vote on May 7.
Mayor Walsh's budget aims to keep expenses below inflation and prioritize housing, city services, public safety, and parks. It includes investments in housing strategies, code enforcement, public safety programs, and park facilities. The budget covers the fiscal year from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, and proposes drawing $27.2 million from the city fund balance to support the plan.