Proposed Auburn budget calls for no tax increase

AUBURN -- If the city of Auburn's budget passes as it is currently proposed, city residents will go another year without a hike in their property tax, water or sewer rates.

City Manager Mark Palesh unveiled his proposed 2009-2010 budget to the city council Thursday. The $46.7 million plan keeps the tax levy steady at $12.81 per $1,000 of assessed value without major service reductions.

The proposal calls for the elimination of a few full-time positions (police detective, automotive mechanic and parking fee collector) and two part-time clerical positions. It adds a full-time utilities director position, which is currently held by a consultant on contract, and a part-time methane utilities mechanic.