City Manager Mark Washington presented the fiscal year 2025 proposed budget to the City Commission, outlining a $690 million spending plan aimed at continuing strategic objectives and making transformational investments. Washington emphasized that the budget will address crucial issues related to safety, health, environment, mobility, economic prosperity, housing, community engagement, and governmental excellence.
Washington stated, "The FY25 Preliminary Fiscal Plan builds upon investments made in prior fiscal years and allows us to be consistent with our values and vision." He highlighted that the proposed budget reflects thoughtful fiscal planning to execute strategic priorities and navigate challenges such as limited revenues and rising costs.
The proposed budget includes various investments to advance equity outcomes, totaling approximately $63.5 million. These investments are designed to promote equity across different aspects of city life.
The budget review schedule includes several workshops and meetings for public participation and feedback on the proposed spending plan. The public is encouraged to watch the meetings on Comcast Channel 26 or the City of Grand Rapids Facebook page and YouTube channel. In-person comments can be provided at the public hearing on May 14 or scheduled budget review workshops, while written feedback can be submitted via email.
The proposed budget aligns with six strategic priorities guiding city decision-making, including Governmental Excellence, Economic Prosperity and Affordability, Engaged and Connected Community, Health and Environment, Mobility, and Safe Community. Additionally, there is a focus on customer service as a core value, with investments aimed at enhancing public-facing services.
The budget proposal aims to continue key investments in transformational projects and maintain current service levels for programs like refuse, recycling, and other "Clean Community" services. The budget also accounts for increased costs for goods and services, as well as competitive wage and benefit increases from labor agreements.
Overall, the FY25 proposed budget in Grand Rapids emphasizes a strategic, equitable, transparent, and data-driven approach to delivering governmental services and resources for the benefit of all residents.
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