Plans for tax increases gained traction during a daylong public hearing on deep cuts proposed by the mayor to close a $188 million budget shortfall. The pressure to raise new revenues was brought to bear by a group of unions and community organizations that proposed a 1 percent tax increase on city residents who earn more than $200,000 a year. That plan isn’t likely to gain the support of council members, but several council members did say they backed raising taxes. The council, which has one week to sculpt Mayor Adrian Fenty’s proposals, heard from more than 140 witnesses on Tuesday, all of them begging that their programs not be axed.
Ward 1 Councilman Jim Graham frequently discussed his plan for a smaller tax increase on wealthy residents. He also raised the possibility of increasing taxes for drivers who rent space in underground parking lots. At-large Councilman Michael Brown voiced support for a plan similar to Graham’s tax on the rich. Other council members weren’t specific but made clear they support a tax increase.
