City officials released a draft of the requested budget for 2011 earlier this week that outlined few changes from last year’s proposal despite lower funds.
The proposal is the first step in the budget’s journey to adoption this summer. The College Park City Council will hold a public hearing on the budget May 11 at 7:15 p.m. in city hall.
Finances are down in the city as this year’s revenue stream is about $800,000 less than last year’s budget. The city’s total revenue for the year was almost $12.5 million.
This year’s budget is expected to garner less debate than years past due to less controversial measures and a more cohesive council group. Last year, the city apportioned $200,000 to install a system of security cameras throughout College Park in order to improve security and decrease crime.
Last year’s budget was passed in early June without much debate, but the years prior produced some turmoil among city officials. Two years ago, former Mayor Steve Brayman was dismayed by what he described as “11th hour” concerns that were brought up by members of the council late in the process.
But so far, no council members have voiced public concern or support towards to the budget after its introduction failed to garner any response or dialogue.
While there are no clear objectors, District 2 Councilman Jack Perry traditionally rails against increased city spending and votes against the budget.
The proposed budget included a “wish list” section where members of the council voiced some of their more pressing concerns.
Some of the wish list items were addressed within the budget or would not need to be addressed such as creating an unpaid research internship position, increasing parking enforcement and increasing fees charged to landlords for inspection costs.
New Student Government Association Student Liaison Becca Lurie suggested the city provide grants to university students who open businesses in College Park which the budget states is already in place.
The proposed budget also aims to increase occupancy and parking permit costs and parking meter costs. According to the budget, the increase in the fees will help levy the costs of the parking garage that has generated less revenue than expected.
The 288-space garage cost $3 million to build and has been used sparingly since its creation last year. City officials predict an uptick in use once Ledo Restaurant moves into the basement of the garage this summer.
rhodes@umdbk.com
