The Albany Common Council has started examining the 2027 city budget proposed by Mayor Dorcey Applyrs, who plans several meetings to answer questions about the spending plan, which calls for a 15% tax levy hike, implementing a new half-percent city sales tax and making millions in cuts.

Council members held a special meeting Tuesday night to hear about and discuss the budget, and are meeting again at 5:30 p.m. today to further discuss the city’s financial situation.

The Common Council will host public hearings on the proposed budget on Oct. 19 and Nov. 2. It plans to vote on a potentially amended budget by Nov. 16.

“The property tax increase the mayor proposed at 15% is not something anyone welcomes,” city Budget Advisor Robert Ward said Tuesday. “That particular tax is a very stable source. It’s the largest element of the city’s local revenues. It’s hard to close a budget gap without a significant increase in property taxes.”

Applyrs is proposing a $257 million general fund, up from $228 million in 2026, amid what she says is “a serious fiscal crisis.” The city faces a $26 million deficit for 2026 and a $35 million deficit for 2027.

“You have to be cautious and careful about what you’re taxing, particularly when we’re concerned about affordability so things like food and utilities,” said Meghan Keegan, chair of the council’s finance committee. “Should we be levying sales tax on groceries? Probably not.”

Applyrs will hold six in-person public meetings and one virtual session between Friday and Nov. 17 that will be open to the public and closed to the press.

“The Proposed 2027 Budget is the beginning of a series of engagements between the public, the Common Council, and my administration,” she said in a statement. “I look forward to speaking directly with residents to explain the careful consideration that went into balancing this budget, ensuring our city can continue to provide the essential services they rely on daily.”

Here is a list of the meetings: 

5:30 p.m. Friday at the Albany West Community Center

7 p.m. Oct. 15 at Pine Hills Elementary School

5:30 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Italian American Community Center

7 p.m. Oct. 22 at Lark Hall 

9 a.m. Nov. 3 (virtual)

5:30 p.m. Nov. 13 at the North Albany Neighborhood Association

5:30 p.m. Nov. 17 at the Jewish Community Center