City Council Approves $345 Million Budget for 2025-2026 Fiscal Year

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In The Know with Gino…

In a unanimous vote, the Chattanooga City Council approved Mayor Tim Kelly’s proposed budget for the upcoming 2025-2026 fiscal year. The budget, amounting to $345 million, will take effect on Tuesday, July 1st, and will remain in place through June 30th, 2026.

The proposed budget marks an increase of $8.75 million from last year’s proposal, reflecting the city’s continued commitment to public safety, infrastructure, and community development.

Prioritizing Public Safety and Infrastructure:

A significant portion of the budget — approximately 59% — is allocated to the Police, Fire, and Public Works Departments, underscoring the city’s focus on maintaining robust public safety measures and infrastructure improvements.

Key allocations include:

– $468,064 for equipment maintenance for the Chattanooga Fire Department, ensuring fire crews are well-equipped.
– $250,000 dedicated to portable street bollards, aimed at enhancing crowd safety during large events.
– $6 million allocated to paving projects, supplementing the $4 million approved in February for a total of $10 million invested in road improvements.
– $2.85 million to support public transit initiatives, improving transportation options across the city.
– $9.1 million pledged for the complete replacement of the Wilcox Bridge, along with contingencies for the Walnut Street Bridge.
– $4.3 million for roads, sidewalks, and water infrastructure upgrades in the South Broad area.
– $7 million allocated to expand capacity at Birchwood Landfill, addressing waste management needs.

Investments in Parks and Community Spaces:

The budget also emphasizes enhancing quality of life through investments in parks and green spaces:

– $1 million for general maintenance of parks and community spaces.
– $2.75 million dedicated to the “Evolving our Riverfront Parks” plan, aiming to revitalize the city’s scenic riverfront.
– $1.6 million split among projects at Carver and Montague Parks, along with funding for a new senior center and improvements along the North Chickamauga Creek Greenway.

Supporting Affordable Housing Initiatives:

Addressing housing affordability remains a priority:

– $2 million split evenly between renter and homeowner rehabilitation programs.
– $500,000 allocated for the AIM Center Espero Project, supporting community engagement and development.
– $6.6 million directed toward Chattanooga Housing Authority projects, including the James A. Henry and Westside Evolves restoration efforts.

Continued Community Support:

The budget also maintains funding for key community organizations that contribute to the city’s vibrancy:

– Chattanooga Design Studio ($70,000)
– Chattanooga Tourism Co. ($1.05 million)
– CO.LAB ($500,000)
– The Enterprise Center ($1.7 million)

Mayor Tim Kelly expressed confidence that the budget aligns with the city’s strategic priorities. “This budget reflects our ongoing commitment to safety, infrastructure, and community development,” Kelly said. “We’re investing in projects that will benefit residents now and into the future.”

The approved budget sets the stage for a year of continued growth and improvement in Chattanooga, reaffirming the city’s dedication to enhancing public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life for all residents.

SOURCE: NOOGAtoday