2016 Budget Adopted in Highland Park

The Highland Park City Council adopted the city’s 2016 budget Monday night with no property tax increase included.

The budget of around $80 million was presented as a balanced budget, with revenues exceeding expenditures by $7.8 million, according to the city.

“The 2016 budget provides a strong statement reflecting the policies and priorities of our community,” said Mayor Nancy Rotering. “This budget meets our core priorities, finds efficiencies and plans for the coming year and the future with an eye on potential challenges and opportunities.”

Some rate increases were part of the deal, such as a 5 percent hike in the water bill and increases in the sanitary sewer surcharge and stormwater utility fee.

The budget is highlighted by $14 million in capital improvement projects, such as $2.4 million for street work, $2 million for bridges and $3 million apiece for sewer and water upgrades.