The City Council reviewed a substantially cut-back $753.3 million fiscal year 2021 operating budget at its meeting Tuesday night, and are now working through a months-long process that must be approved by April 29.
There were few budget surprises at the meeting, as the information was presented last week. The budget is 5.8% lower than the $800 million operating budget Jinks proposed before the COVID-19 pandemic, and includes $46.6 million in cuts to the operating budget and $140.6 million in the capital budget.
The budget will close an anticipated $92.2 million shortfall, and includes a hiring freeze, a drastic reduction in capital projects, and reverses a decision to increase taxes by 2 cents.
City Manager Mark Jinks and Budget Director Morgan Routt walked Council through the new budget, which is being finalized in a roughly two-week period starting with last night’s presentation and ending with scheduled for adoption on Wednesday, April 29.
Jinks is also proposing reducing the transfer to the Alexandria City Public Schools system by $7 million, which equates to a 2% staff bonus, merit step increases and a 1.5% decrease in the employee contribution to the ACPS supplemental retirement plan.
Additionally, the proposed Capital Improvement Project budget has been sharply reduced from $2.1 billion, and while the T.C. expansion at the Minnie Howard campus is delayed, the in-progress plans to renovate MacArthur Elementary School will proceed.
The budget revamp is being conducted at a breakneck pace that leaves the city council with only one week for the add/delete process, in which council members must not only find programs they would like funded but identify proportional cuts in other parts of the budget and get two co-sponsors. Those add-delete proposals are due tomorrow (Thursday).
This Saturday (April 18), the city is also scheduled to host a joint tax rate hearing, a revised budget hearing and an add/delete public hearing. Over the next week, the city will move through the add-delete process toward the final adoption in two weeks.
In-person participation at the April 29 budget adoption meeting at City Hall is possible, but the city is encouraging online participation.
Image via City of Alexandria
Recent Stories
A 17-year-old was found guilty today for the murder of 18-year-old Luis Mejia Hernandez in the parking lot of the Bradlee Shopping Center. The tragic killing was, however, just part…
The Office of Historic Alexandria is going all out for Juneteenth this year with four events, a storytelling event, and more around the city. Juneteenth, celebrated June 19, marks the…
Age is just a number and this kitty would agree! Nomi is a black senior cat up for adoption at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. This elegant girl is…
A 17-year-old former Alexandria City High School student was found guilty Tuesday for last year’s fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Luis Mejia Hernandez in the parking lot of the Bradlee Shopping Center….
Are you seeking a confidential space where you can explore your emotions, overcome challenges, and find inner peace? Look no further than our dedicated psychotherapy service! We understand that life can be overwhelming at times, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
At Peaceful Mind Solutions, our passion lies in helping individuals like you navigate life’s complexities and find the strength to thrive. Our skilled and compassionate therapist is committed to creating a warm, non-judgmental environment where you can express your thoughts and feelings openly. With our personalized approach, we tailor each session to address your unique needs and empower you to overcome obstacles.
Through evidence-based techniques and a deep understanding of the human mind, our therapist will guide you on a transformative journey of self-discovery. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or simply seeking personal growth, we’re here to provide guidance and practical tools for lasting change.
Time flies when you’re having fun! The T.C. Williams High School Class of 1973 will hold its 50th reunion July 21-23, 2023 in Alexandria. All graduates and their adult nears and dears are welcome. Events include a Friday evening icebreaker, Saturday dinner dance, and a Sunday brunch. For more information: tcwilliams73.com, 770.789.3534.
