The Altoona Mirror is reporting that council has decided to put its budget on the table, without a talked about half-mill increase to generate some extra revenue. The increase was proposed by a councilperson last month, but apparently has been shelved for this budget. Councilman Dave Ellis says that the city can work with what it has now. The city is planning to use some money it received from its $39 million allotment of American Rescue Plan funds for the budget, but council warns that in the short term future, problems could arise that could trigger high tax increases. Councilman Ron Beatty said at last nights meeting, that the way to avoid a potential tax hike is to develop more business within the city, which would include codes, zoning and land development. A vote on the budget is scheduled for December 5th.
