Idaho Falls Budget Approaching Approval

The Idaho Falls City Council is getting ready to approve the 2011 and 2012 city budget. Increased fees could be seen at the zoo, ice rink and golf course, but the council members are working to keep property taxes steady.

“The good news is the city of Idaho Falls is fiscally sound,” said Idaho Falls City Council member Ken Taylor.

The 2011 and 2012 Idaho Falls city budget is $178 million.

PDF: Idaho Falls City Budget Proposal

“I think this is a good, sound budget, and we are proud of this budget and I hope the citizens can appreciate the hard work we are doing to help serve them,” said Idaho Falls Mayor Jared Fuhriman.

One of the things of which the City Counci is most proud in this year’s budget is the fact that it hasn’t raised property taxes for the third year in a row.

“I am very pleased because of the recessions and just the desire to hold the line on taxes. We really felt strongly that we didn’t want to increase taxes this year,” said Taylor.

Property taxes make up the general fund totaling 19 percent of the budget, or $26 million.

“It is because you see the cost of living is continually increasing, as is services, and to be able to stay constant over the last three years has been a little bit of a challenge,” said Fuhriman.

“We are getting through because we saved in the good times and we are tightening our belt in the bad times, but we have our savings to draw on,” said Taylor.

Another way the city is saving is by maintaining its existing infrastructure and not taking on any major projects.

You will be able to find a link for the budget proposal the mentioned links section.

If you would like to attend the public hearing, it will be on Thursday, Aug. 25th, 7:30 p.m. at the City of Idaho Falls Council Chambers in the City Hall Annex Building at 680 Park Ave.