The Atlanta City Council today overwhelmingly approved Mayor Kasim Reed's fifth consecutive balanced budget that includes no tax increase and a boost to the city's cash reserves. 

The $567 million FY2015 general fund budget sets the tone for the Mayor’s second term priorities, placing strong emphasis on fiscal responsibility, core operational efficiencies and continued resources for Atlanta’s youth.

The first budget of Mayor Reed’s second term highlights the Mayor’s commitment to continued funding for public safety, economic development and youth development. The FY2015 budget also reflects the Mayor’s commitment to maintaining the City’s fiscal stability by adding $5.7 million to the budgeted reserve fund currently at $137 million. This important milestone provides a strong foundation as the City considers entering the capital markets to fund needed infrastructure repairs.

“This budget continues the City of Atlanta’s course of fiscal stability and responsibility,” said Mayor Kasim Reed. “We have improved our financial strength, earned bond rating upgrades across all of the City’s funds, built our cash reserves, and continue to deliver essential services. The public deserves the highest level of financial stewardship as we seek to tackle a major infrastructure backlog next year through a $250 million public bond offering.”

The spending plan maintains or enhances service delivery across key city functions, including the Department of Parks and Recreation, Watershed and Public Works. Highlights of the fiscally conservative, measured budget include: 

• Significant investment in municipal courts to expand operations and improve customer service;
• Allocation of $4.7 million for Code Enforcement to address blighted properties, which reflects an increase of $2.5 million in funding over FY14;
• Funding for expanded IT systems capabilities to improve customer service and operations, including the 311 call center and 911;
• Funding to maintain a police force of 2,000 officers; 

“We are pleased to note that, for the second year in a row, we reduced the millage rate for Atlanta property owners,” said Chief Financial Officer Jim Beard. “This budget further demonstrates our commitment to being a world-class, effective and efficient government.” 

The FY2015 budget takes effect on July 1, 2014. A full copy of the budget will be available by July 1 at www.atlantaga.gov/finance.