The City of Carbondale has a new budget.
The City Council approved the $53.8 million annual operating budget during its meeting Tuesday night.
The FY'16 budget includes general fund expenditures of more than $25 million including more than a half-million dollars in funding for 14 community-based agencies and organizations.
Earlier this year, the city passed a temporary quarter of a percent increase in its home-rule sales tax to generate additional income to help balance the budget without cutting essential city services.
During its meeting the City Council also approved an increase in the fee tow companies can charge for removing an illegally parked vehicle. The new rate goes up $10 to $75. It also includes an after-hours provision that will allow the vehicle's owner to get the car back after normal business hours for an additional $20 fee.
Changing of the Guard
This week's Council meeting was the final session for the city's acting mayor and three council members.
Council members Lance Jack, Corene McDaniel and Jane Adams have concluded their terms.
Incoming council members Tom Grant, Adam Loos, and Navreet Kang will take the oath of office next month.
This was also the final meeting for acting Mayor Don Monty. Monty did not run for re-election. Mayor-Elect Mike Henry will be sworn in next month, also.
