NEWS RELEASE: Wilmington City Council Members Held a Press Conference on FY2025 Budget and Water/Sewer Rate Increases
Wilmington City Council Members Held a Press Conference on FY2025 Budget and Water/Sewer Rate Increases
A press conference was held on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. in front of the Louis L. Redding City County Building.
Wilmington, DE – Several members of the Wilmington City Council came together to hold a press conference on Thursday, June 6, 2024, in front of the Louis L. Redding City County Building. The purpose of this press conference was to discuss the recently approved Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Budget, which included a 5.8% increase in Water Sewer rates and a 4% increase in stormwater rates for City residents, while notably excluding any increase in Property Tax.
Finance and Economic Development Committee Chairman Chris Johnson delivers remarks during a FY2025 Budget recap press conference on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Louis L. Redding City County Building in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.
The FY2025 Budget reflects the Council’s commitment to the residents of Wilmington and their well-being through strategic planning and fiscal responsibility.
Finance and Economic Development Committee Chairman Chris Johnson delivers remarks during a FY2025 Budget recap press conference on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Louis L. Redding City County Building in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.
Key Highlights of the FY2025 Budget:
Education:
- The budget doubles the funding for the HBCU Foundation from $100,000 to $200,000, reinforcing the Council’s dedication to promoting diversity and excellence in higher education.
Safety:
- An allocation of $100,000 for a pilot program to implement traffic calming devices highlights the Council’s proactive approach to traffic safety, ensuring the protection of all residents and visitors in Wilmington.
Neighborhood Stabilization:
- The transfer to the Neighborhood Stabilization Fund has been increased from $1 million to $2.5 million. This includes $1.5 million for the Home Repair Program, which will be distributed through a lottery system, aiming to empower residents and strengthen communities across the city.
Finance and Economic Development Committee Vice Chairman Michelle Harlee delivers remarks during a FY2025 Budget recap press conference on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Louis L. Redding City County Building in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.
Economic Development:
- To support minority-owned businesses, $350,000 has been allocated to the Economic Strategic Fund for the Minority Business Development Program, underscoring the Council’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and thriving economy.
1st District Council Member Vincent M. White delivers remarks during a FY2025 Budget recap press conference on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Louis L. Redding City County Building in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.
Utility/Water Assistance:
- Funding for the Utility Assistance Program has been increased from $250,000 to $350,000, providing vital support to residents facing financial hardships and ensuring access to essential utilities.
Community Development and Urban Planning Committee Chairman Maria D. Cabrera delivers remarks during a FY2025 Budget recap press conference on Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Louis L. Redding City County Building in Wilmington, DE. Photo By Yesenia Taveras, director of communications for Wilmington City Council.
Water/Sewer Increases:
- City Council successfully negotiated adjustments to the water and sewer rate increases, reducing the proposed rate increase from 9.0% to 5.8%, and the stormwater rate increase from 6.0% to 4.0%. These adjustments represent the Council’s effort to balance fiscal responsibility with equitable access to essential services. For an average residential customer with a 5/8-inch meter and 4,000 gallons monthly consumption, this will result in an additional $3.86 monthly increase.
“This budget reflects City Council’s commitment to our fiscal responsibility and investment in the future of our communities and city,” said Finance and Economic Development Committee Vice Chairman Michelle Harlee, of the 4th District. “It will allow us to continue providing essential services, supporting economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. I am confident that these strategic allocations will help us achieve our goals as we continue to move our city forward.”
Council members were available to discuss these budgetary decisions and address any questions from the media.
About Wilmington City Council: The Wilmington City Council is dedicated to serving the residents of Wilmington through transparent governance and strategic planning, ensuring a prosperous, safe, and vibrant community for all.
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MEDIA INQUIRIES:Yesenia TaverasDirector of Communications, Wilmington City CouncilOffice: (302)576-2585
Mobile: (302)757-5748Email: ytaveras@wilmingtonde.govCity Council Website: www.wilmingtoncitycouncil.com