City of Columbia Heights Discussing 2012 Budget

On Nov. 7, the City of Columbia Heights will continue its discussion of the proposed city budget for 2012. The city started with a possible 3.98% levy increase. There has already been some discussion on the budget and because of some action from the council they have removed $100,000 from the original 2012 budget. That could end up in a potential 3 percent increase rather than the 3.98 percent. 

What most residents seem to want is a reduction in the budget without a reduction in services. It would be interesting to hear what residents would propose on how to reduce our budget and yet maintain those services. 

Many people just look at what is the final amount that they have to write their check out for.  With the elimination of the Market Value Homestead Credit, most residents will see their final numbers go up no matter what the city does but that doesn't mean the city shouldn't try to reduce their portion.

Anoka County has proposed a 7.43 percent reduction which is pretty much countered by the raise in the Columbia Heights School Board budget for 2012 of 4 percent and the raise in the city's levy.

The City Manager, Walter Fehst, the city Finance Director, Joesph Kloiber, along with the various department heads have presented a 2012 budget for discussion.  An overview was presented earlier this year and approved by the council.  Those numbers are then sent on to Anoka County to be added to the proposed levy that is sent out to residents before the Dec. 12 city council meeting. The final budget will be approved at that meeting. 

Between now and Dec. 12, the council needs to hear from the public their suggestions for ways to amend the city budget. The council cannot go any higher than the proposed budget that was approved earlier this year, but they could reduce it. The final decision is left up to the council to make any changes but public comment is always welcome.

All members of the city council and the mayor have been given copies of the proposed budget. Several suggestions have been sent to staff by council members and those, along with additional questions will be part of the Nov. 7 discussion. If you have questions or comments about the budget they can be presented to the council by calling the city office at 763-706-3600.