City Council Starts Review of the 2023-2024 Budget

On Tuesday, October 25th, the City Council will review the proposed Preliminary Budget for 2023-2024. This is an important document since it presents the overall plan for allocating City resources on the variety of programs necessary to provide for public safety, enhance the quality of life and natural resources, and maintain and develop the City’s facilities and infrastructure. We are committed to providing the highest quality municipal services possible with the limited resources available.

If you are interested, here are some of the budget highlights that are currently included in the budget:

• The city will be establishing a Building Replacement Fund. This Fund will support the construction of new buildings in the future, such as a new City Hall. Starting in 2024, staff is recommending that the city regularly transfer funds every year to this account.
• The city’s Strategic Reserve is maintained at $2,000,000.
• Funds to support community partnerships (i.e., special events and programs) have been added to the Legislative budget.
• Funding for a new City Hall generator, in the amount of $40,000, is included in the City Hall budget.
• The budget continues to support the Des Moines Senior Center and Mt. Rainier Pool.
• Funding for recreational programs, in the amount of $12,000, has been included.
• The Behavioral Health Services Fund now includes funding for social services.
• The city has budgeted funds to assist with both the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space (PROS) Plan update and the Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update.
• The budget has two new positions to be discussed – a Public Works Supervisor and an additional Police Officer.
• Roadway resurfacing improvements continue to be funded at $300,000 annually.
• A section of sidewalk will be installed on First Avenue.
• Budget supports the purchase of a pickleball snap court.

Overall, the city is in a very healthy fiscal position. This would not be possible without the support of the Normandy Park residents and the approval of the levy lid lift.

To give you the opportunity to ask questions and express any opinions on the budget, we will be holding a public hearing on the budget on November 8^th. Please join us either in person or remotely to let your voice be heard. The proposed Preliminary budget is included in the October 25^th agenda packet.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with me at aarrington@normandyparkwa.gov. Have a great week!

” Overall, the city is in a very healthy fiscal position”