Mayor Elorza proposes $716.8 M budget

Providence Mayor Jorge Elorza is proposing a $716.8 million dollar budget that he says focuses on long term solutions.

"This budget takes bold steps to address our fiscal challenges so that we can invest in economic growth, strong neighborhoods, and in our schools,” said Elorza.

The city is currently facing a cumulative deficit of more than $13 million.

Under Elorza’s plan most property owners will see their tax bills go up. His administration attributing the increased costs to recent property re-evaluations that show the value of houses in the city have increased.

"In the scheme of things it works the way it was values went up so rates went down. It’s not a perfect scenario but that’s what supposed to happen,” said City Councilor Kevin Jackson.

The budget also calls for what amounts to cuts on car taxes by doubling the exemption value from $1000 to $2000.

In terms of public safety, the proposed plan allots for 60 new police recruits 80 new firefighter recruits.

"For public safety it’s a huge investment,” said Providence Public Safety Commissioner Steven Pare.

As for the on-going battle between firefighters and the mayor on the decision to switch to a 3-platoon schedule, the budget sets aside $2 million for overtime costs and another $5 million that could be used for more overtime or a potential settlement.

"I’ve said that whatever savings we realize that we’ll put those in a proverbial piggy bank until everything is settled in the fire department so that’s exactly what we are doing with the budget,” said Elorza.

This year’s $716.8 million budget represents a $20 million increase in spending from last year’s $696 million dollar budget.

(C) WLNE 2016