PORT TOWNSEND — A split City Council approved the 2006 city budget during a second reading late Monday night, then approved a 1 percent tax increase in a companion vote.
The “status quo” budget, as City Manager David Timmons called it, forecasts general fund revenues totaling $7.3 million and expenditures of $6.5 million.
The budget also includes a beginning fund balance of $411,731.
Joined by fellow City Council members Frank Benskin and Geoff Masci, Laurie Medlicott asked for a delay in approving the budget so she could further review the numbers.
“I did not support the first reading because I did not have enough information,” said Medlicott before the vote, adding that she would not support the second reading either.
“I have to disagree with the slam characterization,” Timmons said, adding that city staff had conducted itself through the same budget process as in past years, and was going at a pace similar to other Washington cities.
“I see that directed at the administration at its failing to perform its responsibilities.”
Medlicott said “in no way” were her comments directed at staff, merely the City Council.
Masci agreed, adding that he did not direct his criticism at staff.
1 percent tax increase
Following budget adoption, with Mayor Catharine Robinson and council members Michelle Sandoval, Freida Fenn and Kees Kolff voting in favor, the council by the same split 4-3 vote approved the 1 percent annual tax increase allowed by state law without going to a public vote.
No public comments were heard or received Monday night during budget deliberations, but additional comments will be accepted next month.
