City Council urged to reassess budget and staffing amid financial concerns

In the heart of Williamsburg, city council members gathered on May 5, 2025, to address pressing financial concerns that have left many residents feeling anxious about the future. As the meeting unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of hope and caution, reflecting the community's desire for revitalization amid economic uncertainty.

One resident, expressing her trepidation about the city's financial decisions, likened the city's budget management to running a household. "It's not a good time," she remarked, drawing parallels between personal financial struggles and the city's fiscal challenges. With rising costs and limited resources, she urged the council to reconsider ambitious expenditures, particularly in light of the upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations, which she felt might not attract the anticipated influx of tourists.

Her sentiments resonated with others in the room, including Mickey Chohan, co-owner of Second Street Bistro. Chohan highlighted the stark reality of balancing wants versus needs in the budget, emphasizing that local businesses operate on instinct and necessity rather than corporate directives. "The city has dug itself into a little bit of a financial hole," she warned, advocating for a more prudent approach to budgeting that would prevent future councils from being burdened by excessive debt.

Chohan proposed concrete solutions, urging the council to instruct the city manager to cut unnecessary personnel positions. She pointed out that the city's workforce has grown significantly over the past decade, with 42 new positions added, raising concerns about sustainability in a landlocked area. "Every 9 to 10 employees equate to a million dollars in the budget," she noted, suggesting that the council should reassess staffing needs in light of the city's limited size.

As the meeting progressed, the discussions underscored a collective desire for fiscal responsibility and community engagement. Residents expressed a willingness to contribute their expertise to help navigate the city's challenges, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in finding long-term solutions.

The council's deliberations on these critical issues reflect a community at a crossroads, grappling with the balance between ambition and practicality. As Williamsburg prepares for its milestone celebration, the path forward remains uncertain, but the voices of its residents are clear: a cautious approach to budgeting may be the key to ensuring a vibrant future for this historic city.