The Danbury City Council is set to vote on a $277.5 million budget tonight. Under the plan proposed by Mayor Dean Esposito, the mill rate would go up 2.25 percent. With a mill rate of 28.22, the typical homeowner will see a quarterly real estate tax bill that is about $40 higher. Sewer and water rates would increase by 2.75 percent.
The proposed Capital Budget includes an investment of little more than $30 million to fund over 100 community projects. He says part of the minimal increase is due in part to adding 6 new officers to the police force.
City Finance Director David St Hilaire notes that after 3 years of no tax increases the City knew they would have to ask for a little more. The City was able to lock in fuel prices in January of 2021 through June of 2023.
The City and Board of Education have been awarded $32.0 million and $36.3 million, respectively of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to aid in the recovery efforts following the pandemic. Esposito laid out plans to spend $20 million to support 40 projects and programs.
