NEW ROCHELLE, NY (October 20, 2023) — City Manager Kathleen Gill this week released her proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2024 one month earlier than in prior years and over the strident objections of Mayor Noam Bramson and Democrat Mayor Candidate Yadira Ramos-Herbert. The reasons for their objections was unclear.
By releasing the budget early, Gill has set the stage for increased transparency and public engagement in the budget review process.
The $305.5 million budget strikes a balance between fiscal responsibility and a resolute focus on critical infrastructure and public safety.
In compliance with New York State tax cap legislation, the proposed budget includes a 2.32% tax rate increase. For the average homeowner, this translates to a $94 annual increase, or approximately $8 per month.
The 2024 budget is transformative, embodying a commitment to safeguarding New Rochelle’s residents, bolstering essential emergency services, and augmenting the Fire Department’s on-duty minimum staffing to 36 members. Moreover, it fosters community engagement by providing resources to enrich programming for youth and seniors, and builds upon the successes of 2023 with increased public activations including concerts and cultural events throughout the City. Economic development is also in focus as the City continues its investment in community development, emphasizing job training, placement, and housing assistance programs.
Infrastructure and facility improvements take center stage, with the introduction of a comprehensive 10-year citywide stormwater improvement plan, sewer enhancements, and the replacement of the Hudson Marina parking structure.
Sustainability efforts will be realized through the update of the GreeNR Sustainability Plan and the launch of a citywide tree planting program and inventory. Additionally, New Rochelle remains focused on the improvement of its parks, with multiple Park Master Plans set to be implemented, and two new community centers to be brought on-line to meet the need for expanded services for youth, seniors, and the special needs communities.
A remarkable $254.6 million will be invested in Capital Projects through FY 2031, spanning citywide improvements in community service, public facilities, neighborhood resiliency, economic growth, and business development.
The budget takes into account union contractual obligations for employee salaries, health insurance, and pension increases. These increases will be funded through a blend of tax revenue, fees, grant funding, and anticipated increases in one-time revenue streams generated from the City’s development program.
City Manager Gill expressed her confidence in the budget, stating, “This fiscally responsible, balanced budget will keep our City’s transformative growth on track while prioritizing essential services, community support, and investments in our City’s infrastructure—all while remaining within the tax cap.”
Residents and stakeholders can access copies of the proposed budget at the City Clerk’s office, the New Rochelle Public Library, and the City’s website at www.newrochelleny.com.
The City Council will engage in budget review meetings throughout November and December, culminating in a public hearing on December 5 leading to the adoption of the budget.