Providence City Council passes nearly $600M 2025 budget

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Providence City Council said it passed a $599 million budget for fiscal year 2025.

The committee said the budget “prioritizes investments in housing, public safety, climate change, and increased funding for Providence Public Schools.”

Budget inclusions highlighted by the council include $5.5 million in additional funding to Providence Public Schools, which totals $135.5 million, $136,000 for a new sewer team to clear storm drains during flash floods, and a Woonasquatucket Rivershed Greenway grant for $125,000 to “aid in the creation of safe green spaces and accessible transportation routes.”

“This budget exemplifies council’s investment in the well-being of Providence residents and our young people,” Council President Rachel Miller said.

The budget did not increase property tax rates, but did eliminate the  homestead exemption for residents living in their homes in favor of a new owner-occupied property tax rate.

The owner-occupied tax rate is $10.46 per $1,000, while the non owner-occupied tax rate remains $18.35 per $1,000 and the commercial property tax remains $35.10 per $1,000.