Raleigh budget plan includes staff raises, parking fees

The $832.5 million budget, which includes pay increases for city employees, a fee increase for solid waste disposal and a new parking fare for downtown Raleigh garages, comes as the city faces challenges due to its rapid population growth.

According to city manager Ruffin Hall, these challenges include infrastructure upgrades and social equity. They underscore the need for smart strategies, which align resources with the highest priority need, Hall said.

The budget contains funds for eight new public safety employees, expanded facilities for city services including a central communications center, and an average pay increase for city employees of 2.9 percent. It also contains adjustments to the benefits packages of employees and customer services enhancements.

Hall noted the value of city employees and the need to retain them.

“In our case, we have been very fortunate to have employees that are dedicated to this community and their organization,” Hall said.