The Brady City Council is likely to adopt a budget for 2012-2013 that will exceed the 2011-2012 budget by $3.8 million. Beginning July 17, the Brady City Council has conducted three budget workshops to review departmental expenditures; consider anticipated revenue; and set the 2012-2013 budget.

The budget workshops drew almost no public attendance or feedback on the Council’s discussions or decisions. The Council has not heard proposals from all departments but will complete their work at another budget workshop scheduled for July 31 at 5:30 at City Hall. It will be the last opportunity for public comment and input.

The City has touted a 1¢ reduction in the electrical distribution charge. Offsetting this small reduction in electrical distribution charge is a proposed 8% increase in City Property Taxes.

City Manager James Minor commented that the small reduction in electrical distribution charge was, “So the City doesn’t look as evil as it used to".

The 2011-2012 budget was approximately $20 million. The incomplete 2012-2013 budget totals $23.8 million. Much of the increase is for a proposed 5% pay raise for city employees.

Poor attendance at these meetings sends a powerful message to the Council members that it is OK for them to spend more and more money from merchants’ and residents’ pockets.