City budget faces scrutiny over soaring expenditures and taxes

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the proposed budget for the City of Canton, highlighting a significant increase in expenditures primarily driven by salary adjustments and the creation of new positions. The general fund is projected to rise by approximately 85%, with total salaries and wages recommended to increase by $850,000. This adjustment is linked to the implementation of a compensation and classification study and the addition of three new roles.

Public safety remains a major focus, accounting for 56% of the general fund's expenditures, which includes funding for the police department and fire services. Other budget allocations include 16% for administrative functions, 8% for public works, and 3% for contingency funds. Notably, property taxes constitute 45% of the general fund's revenue, while fines and forfeitures contribute only 6%. Officials emphasized that the current property tax revenue does not fully cover public safety costs, necessitating reliance on various revenue sources.

The proposed budget for 2025 anticipates utilizing $2.4 million from the fund balance, which has raised concerns among residents regarding fiscal responsibility. Public comments during the meeting included critiques of the budget's reliance on projected revenues and the lack of actual fund usage in previous years. Resident Chris Everett pointed out that while the budget has increased by 57% since 2020, property tax revenue has surged by 97%, raising questions about the sustainability of such growth.

Another resident, Thomas Weaver, urged the council to review the budget in light of recent legislative changes, indicating a desire for greater transparency and accountability in financial planning. The meeting concluded with an invitation for further public input, reflecting ongoing community engagement in the city's budgeting process.