EGF starting the 2024 budget process

Less than five months into the year and the East Grand Forks council is already turning its attention towards a 2024 budget.

Faced with a 10% levy hike in December the city council created an Ad Hoc Committee to look for ways to reduce expenses and increase revenues.

Last week the committee asked the council for clarification on where they would like to see the next budget land so they can fine-tune any recommendations.

Mayor Steve Gander says a 5% levy increase might be a good starting point.  “Coming off a 10 I think we will have to find a way to keep it at a range of 5.  Everyone has gotten pinched.”

Council member Brian Larson says 5% sounds good….but it will be a challenge.  “I think to answer the tough question is…yes…I think we should look at a reduction in services.  That’s probably the best way to lower operating expenses.”

Other council members say upcoming salary negotiations with the various employee unions will have a lot to say about the next spending plan.