Caldwell workshop outlines budget, plans for property tax relief for seniors

The Caldwell City Council held a budget workshop on June 2, 2025, aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of the city's financial proposals for the upcoming year. The meeting emphasized transparency and community engagement, inviting residents to participate in discussions about the budget and its implications for local services.

A key focus of the workshop was the city's commitment to being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. Council members highlighted the importance of utilizing technology to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, ensuring that funds are allocated effectively. The council reported a projected fund balance of approximately $3.7 million from the previous year's budget, which will be considered for future projects and needs.

Among the proposals discussed was the establishment of a building fund to address the city's aging infrastructure, including the library and senior center. The council acknowledged the challenges of passing bonds for new facilities and expressed the need to set aside funds to support future construction projects.

Additionally, the council is exploring the possibility of implementing a property tax rebate program aimed at providing relief to vulnerable residents, particularly those aged 65 and older on fixed incomes. This initiative would allow eligible citizens to apply for a rebate on their city property taxes, helping to alleviate financial pressures as living costs continue to rise.

The workshop also addressed budget cuts made across various departments, with an emphasis on reducing travel and meeting expenses by an additional 10%. This decision reflects the council's ongoing efforts to align expenditures with anticipated revenues while maintaining essential services for the community.

As the budget process continues, the council encourages residents to engage with city staff for further discussions and clarifications on the proposals presented. The workshop marks the beginning of a series of meetings aimed at refining the budget and ensuring it meets the needs of Caldwell's residents.