Mayor Richard J. Kos today announced the proposed budget for the City of Chicopee, requesting $189,112,337.09 to finance both City and School operations.

The budget calls for a 3.1% increase in spending, or an additional $5,687,141.27 in comparison with the 2017 fiscal year.

The budget that will be presented to the City Council for approval prior to June 30, 2017, allocates for $82,349,117 for the School Department which exceeds net school spending requirements in an effort to bridge the gap in their budget deficit. The additional $1.25 million commitment from the City, if approved by the City Council, will prevent any teacher layoffs.

The budget increases were mainly attributed to increased health insurance costs, the City’s contribution to education, public safety, water and sewer bonding, sanitation, and pension costs.

The budget continues to fully fund the Police and Fire Departments which, because of the continued commitment of the City Council, are at the highest complement of personnel in the City’s history.

In addition, it continues to provide resources for our technical and security needs both as a city and specifically public safety, with an expense account for public safety technology as well as additional municipal needs.

“As with last year, this budget reflects continued efforts in balancing the present and future needs of our City, while taking into consideration our ability to pay,” said Mayor Kos. “With the Council’s assistance, we will continue to provide for the level of services that we have come to enjoy in our City while always respecting the taxpayer. I look forward to reviewing this budget with the Council.”

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