The Baltimore City Council approved a $2.1 billion budget and a reduction in the property tax rate Monday.
During a special two-session day, the council and city Board of Estimates approved a 2-cent reduction in the real property tax rate and a
5-cent reduction in the personal property tax rate. Only one council member voiced disapproval of the move.
“The average city taxpayer is only going to save 20 cents per day with this tax cut, but the city is losing $5 million,” said Council Member James Kraft, D-District 1. “I think if taxpayers realize how we could use that money, they might want to forgo the drop.”
Mayor Sheila Dixon said she was proud of a budget that emphasized programs for city youth.
“We?ve devoted 22 percent of the budget to children, including more money for recreation centers and after-school programs,” she said.
Meanwhile, affordable housing supporters were pleased the council passed an inclusionary housing bill. The measure would require developers to set aside money for affordable housing for low-income residents.
“We?re thrilled about this; this will allow working people the ability to live where they work,” said Stuart Katzenberg, head organizer for ACORN, a group that advocates for tenants? rights.
