Smiley budget expands city services, raises taxes

METRO proposed $586 million budget subject to approval by City Council

BY NEIL MEHTA UNIVERSITY NEWS EDITOR

Mayor Brett smiley announced his administration’s $586 million budget proposal for fiscal year 2024 at a Tuesday budget address to the providence City Council. The proposal is Smiley’s first as mayor.

The proposal calls for residential property tax rates of $18.70 per $1,000 in assessed value, up from $17.80 in fiscal year 2023, with the 40% homestead exemption maintained. It would decrease commercial property tax rates from $35.40 per $1,000 to $34.10, the Boston Globe reported.

It also calls for an expansion of city services, designating $300,000 to improve litter removal and $100,000 for a new 311 system, as well as $193,000 for sidewalk improvements and $222,000 for graffiti removal. The proposal is subject to approval by the providence City Council, which will