You have another opportunity Tuesday evening to testify on Columbia city manager De’Carlon Seewood’s proposed $598-million budget.
The council plans its second public hearing on the budget at Tuesday’s 7 o’clock meeting. City manager Seewood tells 939 the Eagle that he wants to hear from you about what your priorities are and your thoughts on the city’s priorities.
Mr. Seewood’s proposed budget focuses on several key issues, including public safety and housing. His budget report says the city hired and retained 24 officers last year and has hired 28 new police officers in 2025. City finance director Matthew Lue tells 939 the Eagle that police and fire make up about $70-million of the city’s general fund.
Under Mr. Seewood’s budget blueprint, the city’s general fund is budgeted to operate at a $3.5 million deficit in the upcoming fiscal year, which begins in October. That money would be used for pay raises for city employees, a top priority for Mr. Seewood and the council.