Boise’s proposed budget for FY 2021 will be essentially flat compared to last year’s. The city projects a $5.8 million revenue increase, but COVID-19 expenses will add an unexpected burden.
Mayor Lauren McLean and the City Council created a new $3.2 million COVID-19 safety fund, which will be a safety net for virus-related costs next year.
During a City Council meeting yesterday, Boise’s Budget Manager Eric Bilimoria said these costs could include enhanced cleaning of public buildings or protections for vulnerable populations.
“Any of the expenses that we've seen in the last couple of months could be applicable to that reserve," said Bilimoria.
The city plans to cut $1 million in personnel spending. Bilimoria said they are still looking to cut $2 million from elsewhere in the budget.
Despite the challenges, City Hall plans to invest in a series of longer-term projects. Proposals include planning a city Human Rights Commission, funding eviction prevention and working on a broadband fiber project.
City Council plans on continuing its budget workshops throughout June for the fiscal year that starts in October.
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