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Dearborn council adopts balanced FY 2024–25 budget with no tax millage increase
Summary
The Dearborn City Council unanimously adopted the fiscal year 2024–25 budget and set the 2024 city tax rate with no increase in millage; the plan includes a $173,632 general-fund surplus, a 2.8% water-rate rise and $37 million in grant funding, council members said.
Council President Cerini called a special public hearing Tuesday and the City Council voted to adopt the fiscal year 2024–25 budget and the 2024 city tax rate after a presentation by Finance Director Michael Kennedy.
Finance Director Michael Kennedy said the proposed general fund shows $148,131,186 in revenues and other financing sources against $147,957,554 in proposed expenditures, leaving a surplus of $173,632. He described the budget as “successful, appropriate, and balanced” and said tax millage rates are flat year over year. Kennedy also stated all-funds combined revenues of $385,719,177 and noted the proposed budget includes a 2.8% increase in water rates; he said the Great Lakes Water Authority passed through a nearly 3.1% increase that contributed to higher water/sewer costs.
The council president highlighted several budget priorities during remarks before the vote, saying the budget protects public safety and operations. Cerini noted the police department has about 188 officers, the fire department is staffed at 151 members, and the city budgeted for eight new ambulances. He also credited a new grants office for securing “over $37,000,000” in grant dollars this fiscal year to reduce pressure on local taxpayers and fund parks and capital projects.
Council members of both parties praised the collaborative budget process. Councilman Enos thanked staff and department heads for producing a “comprehensive and responsible” budget. Councilwoman Herrick said the council set aside additional funds to assist retirees in need with health care, and Councilman Hamoud and others emphasized long-term fiscal viability after recent structural deficits.
With no public speakers signed up for the budget hearing, Councilman Hamoud moved to adopt the budget “as presented,” and Councilwoman Herrick seconded the motion. The clerk conducted a roll-call vote; each council member present was recorded as voting yes and the clerk announced the motion passed with seven affirmative votes.
The hearing closed immediately after the vote and the council adjourned the special session to continue with the regular agenda.
