In a recent city council meeting, Petersburg's budget director, Gary Crosier, presented a proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, highlighting a significant increase in funding across various departments. The total budget has risen from $121.15 million in FY24 to a proposed $138.95 million for FY25, marking a 14% increase.

Key initiatives in the budget include the establishment of a new turf division aimed at enhancing the Petersburg Sports Complex, which is expected to boost tourism and revenue through improved amenities and tournaments. Additionally, the budget proposes a 5% cost-of-living adjustment for city employees, alongside a reduction in healthcare premiums that has already begun to reflect in employee paychecks.

Crosier noted that the budget also addresses public safety concerns, with a 10% pay increase for police and fire personnel, as well as a 12% overall increase in public safety funding. This increase is attributed to the restoration of previously reduced funding levels for emergency communication services.

The budget outlines a total of 664 positions across all city departments, with 143 currently vacant. The general fund, which constitutes 68% of the city's operating budget, is set to increase from $88.08 million to $94.38 million. Significant increases were also reported in various sectors, including a 16% rise in general government funding due to the return of accounting services to city control.

The proposed capital improvement plan (CIP) for FY25 totals $76 million, aimed at enhancing infrastructure and facilities, including a new courthouse project. The CIP is designed to be a flexible document, adapting to changing priorities and funding opportunities over the next five years.

Crosier concluded the presentation by thanking the city council, city manager, and community members for their involvement in the budget development process, emphasizing the collaborative effort that shaped the proposed budget. The finalized budget will be made available online and through the clerk's office following its approval.