Syracuse City Auditor Alexander Marion has released his report on Mayor Sharon Owens’s proposed budget.
He says the city is in a stronger financial position than others across the state but admits it’s not immune to challenges.
Marion says part of the budget does remain in limbo due to the state budget being a month late.
“I am hopeful that we are going to see an increase in state aid this year,” Marion said. “[Gov. Kathy Hochul] and legislative leaders have all proposed increases in aid to municipalities, including the city of Syracuse.”
Owens’ budget proposal is set at $354.5 million and includes investments in housing, community assistance and response services, city-wide property revaluation and workforce opportunities, including youth summer employment. It projects general fund revenues for the year at $330.6 million, which is a net increase of $12 million from a year earlier.
The city says there will be no increase in property taxes, but the proposal includes a 4% increase in water rates.