Grand Island City Council passed the proposed budget with amendments, with just three weeks to spare on Tuesday night.
The two police jobs, which were up in the air, are safe and with no tax increase this year. Congratulations and thanks were passed by almost every council member to city staff for figuring out a way to bring back two police jobs to the department and without cost to citizens.
The majority had it – 8 to 1 – but concern still lingered.
Council members Gericke and Nickerson said this was only a temporary fix. Tax increases should've been considered to avoid a possible hefty increase next year.
"I'm delighted with it. I think the staff did a good job and found the money without tax increases. That's a big issue for me," said council member, Larry Carney.
"The staff did basically what they were requested to do which was bring back a budget smaller and without tax increases and we did it. It's been a lot of work, there's been some struggle and strain and yes, I'm going to guess there are some things that need to be corrected," said Mayor Margaret Hornady.
"I think we'll be back here in June or July, if not sooner cutting, positions again. I don't think we're going to be able to maintain it. I don't think the citizens are going to be happy with the cuts. I don't think they're going to like not having their snow removed or not having enough police officers," said council member, John Gericke.
Mayor Hornady said this has been a large undertaking. Council members know more about this city than ever before; and by using the same prioritization method, next year, if there are budget issues, will go much smoother.
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