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Macomb, IL – Macomb's proposed new budget calls for spending of $34.5 million.
City Administrator Dean Torreson told aldermen during their March 28 Committee of Whole meeting that the projected budget is an increase of $6.3 million from this year.
"The reason for the increase is the new maintenance center for the mass transit system," Torreson said.
The estimated cost of the project is $13 million. Much of that money will come from grants.
Income tax revenue from the state will drop because the 2010 census indicates the city's population decreased.
The budget provides 1.5% pay raises for most city employees, including members of the fire and public works departments. The city is still negotiating a new contract with police officers. Torreson indicated those talks are headed to arbitration.
Other costs are expected to rise by much more.
"Some of the expenses that will go up significantly for next year are fire and police pensions by almost $54,000, liability insurance and worker's comp by $109,000, (and) IMRF (Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund) contributions by $39,000," Torreson said.
Aldermen will be asked to approve the budget during their April 18 meeting. The new spending plan goes into effect at the beginning of May.