Norman City Council to vote on $45 million increase in 2013 budget
Norman’s city budget will grow by $45 million if the City Council approves a proposal for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins July 1.
The proposed budget lists expenditures of about $204.1 million, Norman Finance Director Anthony Francisco said. The increased funding will go to improve the city’s infrastructure and stay up to date with regulations.
Most of the increase is due to rising costs of capital improvements in the wastewater and water departments, Francisco said.
New state regulations on wastewater plants will require ongoing improvements for the next couple of years, Norman Chief Accountant Clint Mercer said.
“The new budget will also provide for an increase in community services, like for the homeless,” Mercer said.
The proposed budget increase is based on a predicted 4.25 percent growth in sales-tax revenue, based on growth patterns, Francisco said.
The city will monitor revenue throughout the year, Mercer said.
“If the projected revenue is not reached, we will make cuts and tighten the budget in different areas citywide,” he said.
The proposed budget also maintains existing staffing levels and includes no cost-of-living raises.
The council will vote on the budget at its June 5 meeting.
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