A Fiscally Reasonable Mayor – In Denver?!?
Denver's new mayor, Mike Johnston, is making it clear that he will not stand for excessive spending in his first city budget.
In a move to tighten the purse strings, Johnston's administration announced they will only support $10.6 million in funding changes from the nearly $80 million in proposals submitted by Denver City Council members.
Under Johnston's proposal, the program's overall budget will increase to $15.6 million. The $3 million in additional money to the program is far less than the $17.5 million council members wanted.
This decision shows that Mayor Johnston is taking a responsible approach to budgeting and is considering the priorities of the city council. However, it is clear that he is scaling back many of the council's proposals by a significant amount.
According to a letter addressed to city council members, there are two factors driving the need for tighter spending: lower projected sales tax revenue and the migrant crisis, which is "expanding dramatically." Considering these challenges, the mayor is being cautious with the city's finances.
Some of the increases that Mayor Johnston is proposing include:
$3 million for emergency rental assistance
$3 million for Denver Health
$2 million for the Basic Income Project.
These projects are worthwhile, but the mayor is also keeping an eye on the city's streets and infrastructure by allocating $1 million for these upgrades.
Additionally, the mayor is showing his commitment to small businesses by proposing an increase of $500,000 for a city program that supports them. He is also adding a position to manage compliance with the pay-as-you-throw program, demonstrating his dedication to responsible waste management.
Mayor Johnston is also considering the voices of residents by setting aside $1 million for a participatory budget, allowing them to have a say in how their money is spent. This is a refreshing change from the previous administration, which often ignored the input of taxpayers.
While some may criticize the mayor for not fully funding the council's requests, it is important to note that the $3 million allocated for the emergency rental assistance program is far less than the $17.5 million the council originally wanted.
However, the mayor is open to considering additional changes and the council can still override any potential vetoes.
The council has yet to issue a formal response to the mayor's letter, but they still have time to consider the changes. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for October 23, with the final spending plan needing to be approved by November 13.
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Mayor Johnston's approach to clamping down on potential increases to the city budget is a responsible and necessary move in the face of economic challenges. He is showing his commitment to fiscal responsibility and listening to the priorities of both the council and the residents of Denver.
With his leadership, the city can continue moving forward without overspending and putting its financial future at risk.