~ Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans has presented a proposed operating budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026 that aims to maintain the city's property tax levy at its current level for the fourth consecutive year. The budget, totaling $680 million, reflects a decrease of approximately $27 million from the current year's budget.

In a statement, Mayor Evans emphasized the importance of fiscal prudence in keeping the tax levy flat for four years in a row. He expressed pride in the proposed budget, which he believes will fund essential services, innovative programs, and transformative projects that will continue to drive progress in Rochester.

The decrease in the budget can be attributed to the conclusion of non-recurring projects funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, as well as identified efficiencies in both operating and capital improvement programs. Despite these reductions, there will be no increases to Local Works and Refuse fees.

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However, residents can expect a slight increase of less than $5 on their average water bill. This increase will go towards much-needed repairs and renovations of Rochester's 149-year-old water infrastructure, including removing all lead service lines.

Mayor Evans acknowledged that drafting this budget was not an easy task due to rising costs and flat or declining revenue streams caused by inflation and uncertainty at the federal level. He credited his Senior Management Team and City workforce for their fiscal stewardship and collaboration with community partners for making it possible to present a budget that maintains the tax levy without cutting services or programs.

The proposed budget also continues to build on Rochester's momentum towards improving public safety, creating opportunities for all residents, and generating prosperity. Investments in crime reduction strategies include continuing initiatives such as Gun Involved Violence Elimination (GIVE) and Saturday night special-entertainment zones in the East End entertainment district. The budget also includes funding for two 25-recruit Police Academy classes to fill vacancies in the Rochester Police Department.

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In addition to public safety, the budget also prioritizes public health investments, such as adding a Fire Lieutenant to improve code-compliance at high-risk properties and a 28-recruit Fire Academy class. It also includes initiatives to ensure all residents have access to opportunities, such as the second-annual Baldwin Richardson Food HBCU Classic and expanding vendor opportunities at the Public Market and International Plaza.

The proposed budget also aims to make Rochester more prosperous by supporting home ownership through programs like Buy the Block and affordable rental housing developments. It also includes investments in workforce development, entrepreneurship programs, and constructing the Maplewood Nature Center.

Residents can view the full proposed budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026 on the City of Rochester's website. Mayor Evans believes this budget will serve as a roadmap for keeping Rochester moving forward with new momentum, regardless of any challenges that may arise.

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