After a lengthy and unprecedented process of public input, Mayor Soglin released his proposed 2012 operating budget today. The lede is that it prioritizes basic services, raises city property taxes 3.2%, and cuts the subsidy to Overture Center by a third.
One thing I learned in grad school is that a budget is a statement of priorities. Based on what the Mayor is proposing, it's clear he agrees with me that public safety and other basic services are the most important priority for city government. And his attention to slashing borrowing and considering the consequences of across-the-board cuts makes me feel like the $40-$60 property tax hike Northsiders face is reasonable.
With layoffs and cuts to major services avoided, the major point of contention will be the cut to Overture's operating subsidy. Personally, between this and reopening the Edgewater controversy, I'm glad we're finally having a public debate that directly connects the grand plans of Madison's elite to their impact on the average taxpayer.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comments are moderated. Anonymous comments must include your name and location/organization.