LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Several City Council members are pushing for additional budget for affordable housing, sidewalks, firefighters, tree maintenance/replacement, and mental health programs – along with a large property tax cut. The city says all of these items would be subject to change on additional revenue being available.
If additional funding becomes available through final property evaluation over the estimated amount, according to the city, the budget would be changed to include:
$750,000 to affordable housing
$250,000 to sidewalks
$200,000 to tree trimming/replacement
$175,000 for two additional firefighters
$125,000 for mental health services
(The city says items would have to be funded proportionately if revenue is below $1,500,000.)
If funding is over $1,500,000, the city says they hope to add:
First, $500,000 to property tax cut THEN
50% to police and fire pension
50% to city streets
According to a press release, Council members believe additional funding for affordable housing is essential and extra funding for mental health services and programs will provide an alternative response and help beyond just LPD and LFR.
According to the city, the Council budget proposal also includes cutting the property tax rate by $500,000. Council members say the tax cut will help soften the impact of the recent property revaluations.
Additional funding for sidewalks is also outlined in the proposed budget. Council member, Bennie Shobe, says that quality sidewalks promote the health of residents and protect the safety of school kids and other pedestrians.
“Proper maintenance and repair helps meet Americans with Disabilities Act standards and reduces the City’s legal liability for potential trip hazards due to damaged or misaligned walks,” Shobe said.
According to a press release, City Council will discuss the proposal in chambers on Monday and vote this Wednesday. If approved, these changes would become part of the final budget scheduled to be voted on during City Council on August 23rd.
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Originally Appeared Here