Danbury officials have unveiled the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year, days before the new fiscal year begins.  Mayor Mark Boughton says the $262-million will not lead to a tax rate increase, but will send more money to the schools than the Board of Education requested. 

There's a .2 percent spending increase overall. 

The City Council is traditionally the voting body, but because of the Governor's Executive Order Boughton will have final say on his own budget.  In Greater Danbury area towns with a town meeting form of government where there is typically a referendum on the budget, Boards of Finance have approved tax and spending plans for the new fiscal year.

Public comment will be accepted via email, comments@danbury-ct.gov, through 5pm next Thursday. 

The proposal includes $126.3 million for the city, with a focus on roads, public safety and parks and recreation facilities.  The schools will receive $9.8 million in funding from grants, coronavirus relief, money left over from this fiscal year and other sources.  The City contribution is $135.7 million, bringing the school budget to $145.5 million.

A cut in funding to the post-employment benefits program and a lower capital projects budget are helping to keep the tax rate flat.