“We know we are implementing this budget in a period of a lot of uncertainty.”
Grand Rapids City Manager Mark Washington said that uncertainty is not only being felt at a local level, but at state and federal levels as well, a sentiment echoed by Interim Chief Financial Officer Scott Saindon.
“Just the economic policy uncertainty at the federal level, things we’ve been seeing going on with federal funding, the tariffs, and just concern about the general economic conditions overall.”
Those concerns have led to a proposed 6.5% budget increase over last year, largely due to inflation and previously negotiated wage and benefit adjustments.
And although the millage rate decreased, the average Grand Rapids resident will pay an extra $39 in property taxes due to rising property values.
Despite uncertainty, Washington says Grand Rapids continues to show economic resilience and the proposed budget maintains essential services while investing in long-term initiatives.
A public hearing will take place on Tuesday, May 13th at 7 p.m. Budget specifics can be found below.
