Remember this headline: Cicilline’s budget holds line on taxes?
Those who only read the headline missed this important political clearinghouse:
“[the budget] is built on the assumption that the General Assembly will give Providence more money and will allow the city to levy several new fees.”
As one would read along, Cicilline praises the city for providing a “government in check” and a city that offers “stability.” But, he also mentions that the budget does not account for eventual salary increases when every major city union contract expires on July 1. According to the article, “Almost half of the revenue increases Providence is counting on to balance its budget require Assembly action.”
Fast forward to the article a month and a half later: Facing Budget deficit, Cicilline eyes job cuts, tax hike and education trim.
Apparently, it was just an accounting error in the school budget, and several additional sources of revenue (the General Assembly and fee based water system) unfortunately were not able to follow through, so taxes are going to have to be raised only 4%.
Oh please, give me a break.
Luckily, over 100 Providence citizens turned out at the City Council meeting this week in disapproval of the tax hike (which is the maximum increase allowed).
This financial problem arises after years of government inefficiency. Sales of city properties, which the city has been dependent on, only bring in one-time sources of revenue. The city’s inability to make sound fiscal decisions should not be the burden of its taxpayers.
Cicilline was depending on the General Assembly to essentially compensate the city for its shortcomings. This is an example of not taking personal responsibility for one’s decisions. Part of being an elected official is making tough decisions. The mayor should have closely audited the city and made cuts where possible. I don’t buy it that everything in the $625 million city budget is necessary enough to require the maximum tax raise is imposed on its already tax-burdened citizens. Councilman Lombardi agrees that not all the necessary cuts were made and will not support this budget.
One lady interivewed by the Projo commented that the recent property evaluation combined with the said tax increases would increase her monthly bill $300. The middle class feels this pinch.
For someone who has aspirations for higher office, Cicilline should be careful who he makes mad. Providence is a large voting block, as well as the area who uses Providence water who he wanted to charge usage fees. Imposing maximum tax hikes, proven inability to balance a budget, and irresponsible fiscal decisions are three very big mistakes the mayor has made which the public should remember in years to come.
