New taxes, higher fees in Cantrell's plan to fix city budget
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Illustration: Annelise Capossela/Axios
Mayor LaToya Cantrell has proposed new taxes and increased parking and sanitation fees to help the city plug its budget hole next year.
Why it matters: Her proposal puts the financial burden on residents, who already say the cost of living is a top concern.
The big picture: Cantrell and the administration's financial leaders say the city needs to figure out new ways to generate revenue.
- The big events at the Caesars Superdome and Smoothie King Center aren't generating enough money for the city, they say, because those facilities are owned by the state.
- Pandemic-era funds are also running out, and with the Trump administration, the city isn't expecting to get as much in federal grant money as before.
Yes, but: Council members tell Axios they don't think there's an appetite for new taxes.
- They are looking for other options during budget season, including the bond propositions on the Nov. 15 ballot to fund infrastructure projects.
Zoom in: Here are the proposals from Cantrell. She didn't provide specific numbers for most of the items.
- A half-cent tax increase on restaurants, bars, hotels, motels, short-term rentals and online retail orders.
- Higher fees for sanitation, parking and permits.
- Adjusting the property tax to the maximum millage rate.
What's next: The City Council is having budget hearings through next month.
- The meetings are open to the public. See the schedule.
- The council is expected to approve a finalized budget by Dec. 1.