Lowell City Council debates budget with focus on personnel raises and spending efficiency

The Lowell City Council meeting on May 27, 2025, focused primarily on the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, with significant discussions surrounding personnel costs and departmental expenditures. Council members expressed concerns about the sustainability of salary increases and the overall financial health of the city.

Councilor Mesilla highlighted alarming trends in personnel expenses, noting that some city employees received raises exceeding the council's own salary of $25,000. He pointed out that the police department's salaries had increased by 12.8%, raising questions about the city's ability to sustain such costs, especially in light of the financial challenges faced by local schools and the community at large.

The city manager responded, explaining that the raises were part of collective bargaining agreements aimed at retaining employees who might otherwise leave for better-paying positions in neighboring municipalities. He emphasized that the increases were necessary to maintain a competitive workforce and to address previous issues of employee retention.

Several councilors, including Councilor Robinson and Councilor Chao, acknowledged the complexity of the budget and the need for strategic investments in city services. They noted that while there were areas of concern, such as rising ordinary expenses and electricity costs, the budget was crafted to meet the city's goals for improved public safety, infrastructure, and employee compensation.

Councilor Belanger commended the budget as one of the leanest and most responsible seen in recent years, while also recognizing the challenges posed by increasing debt service and fixed costs. He urged caution regarding future borrowing, given the city's significant debt obligations.

The council ultimately agreed on the importance of maintaining a balanced budget that addresses both immediate needs and long-term sustainability. As discussions continued, council members expressed a commitment to working collaboratively to refine the budget and ensure it meets the needs of Lowell's residents.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the delicate balance the Lowell City Council must strike between investing in city services and managing fiscal responsibility, as they prepare to finalize the budget for the upcoming fiscal year.