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The City of Williamsport 2024 proposed budget calls for a 1 mill increase in real estate taxes and the administration also looks to add two positions -- an assistant general manager in streets and parks and a grant administrator.
Under general government, the City Council budget proposal indicated a decrease in the premium on health
insurance.
For the city clerk, a proposed 3% salary increase was budgeted, as it is included for at-will employees, and there is a decrease in City Hall operating allocation, which is rent the city is paying.
"Realistically, we are in line with (2023)," Council President Adam Yoder said of the council budget.
Salaries also are in line and do not change for council until 2026, he said.
Council placed $75,000 in the budget for legislation contingency and $500 for equipment.
Councilman Jon Mackey asked about possible budgeting for someone to run the meetings.
The mayor's office budget decreased by 0.47%, which is a decrease of $1,042, Slaughter said. The salary is set by ordinance. There is the same 3% increase proposed for the executive assistant for at-will employees. Savings were realized because of a new computer budgeted, which was purchased and won't need to be purchased in 2024.
Under the Bureau of Law, the city isn't seeing a major change in the budget line item. Overall, the projected cost is to come in what was budgeted as the officials switched how to pay for legal services.
Councilwoman Liz Miele said it would be wise to reexamine all services that are contracted out, especially with upcoming union contracts and negotiations with bargaining units.
Other departments and discussions in the first budget work session included a review of the controller budget, treasurer office, human resources and some discussion on the proposed grant administrator.
The grant administrator would free up time and complete tasks otherwise being performed by employees. The administrator would work in-house and be able to focus on the duties. The city also has consulting firms working on state and federal grants. The Pennsylvania Economy League also can be a resource for grant opportunities, city officials were told.
The public works department is seeking an assistant general manager, said Scott Livermore, department general manager.
Livermore said, to questions on line painting for bicycle lanes, that he might be able to use liquid fuels funds for that purpose.
Bill Scott is the city engineer. He is working closely with Lycoming College on the crosswalk at Elizabeth Street and Washington Boulevard, on the levee and on other infrastructure, such as the safety at the entrance to the green bridge overpass from Third Street across Interstate 180, Livermore said.
Sean Walker, director of recreation along with Livermore, noted how the investment into recreational equipment -- such as the pool filter and liner -- and the basketball, tennis and pickleball courts resurfacings, is saving the city on maintenance-related costs. All are relatively low maintenance costs and if officials see or are given reports of any broken nets or cracks in the surfaces -- they will address those concerns.
Miele suggested there be a maintenance fund put into the capital projects budget for any unforeseen repairs, vandalism and damages.
Miele noted how the parks and recreation plan next year can incorporate best management practices to help the city to manage its environmental challenges. She asked for clarification about the storm water management plan with the Williamsport Municipal Water and Sanitary Authority. She noted how there were MS4 responsibilities shared with the city and Loyalsock Township on the program and wanted a better picture of where the program was and what the city's input and costs will be moving forward.
Slaughter said that can be arranged and more information is available to council from Michael Miller, authority executive director, and the authority staff.