Rochester Reporter

On May 10, 2024, Mayor Malik D. Evans of Rochester proposed a fiscal year 2024-25 operating budget for the city that makes historic cuts to property-tax rates, increases investments in strategic initiatives, and continues the City’s commitment to critical service delivery.

"The budget I am presenting today is a Prosperity Budget because it accelerates the pace of Rochester’s return to growth and prosperity and protects those who are at risk of falling behind," said Mayor Evans. "Rochester is growing, our neighborhoods are gaining value, and our residents are amassing unprecedented wealth for the first time in generations. I am proud of this budget because it builds on that momentum while also lifting and supporting our most vulnerable residents."

The proposed budget includes a 37.7 percent reduction in the residential property tax rate and a 27.8 percent reduction in the commercial rate. These reductions were made possible by holding the property tax levy flat following this year’s quadrennial re-valuation of all city properties.

The proposed budget calls for total spending of about $697 million, an increase of about 1.4 percent over the current budget. It does not propose any increases in service fees for refuse, recycling, and local works. A water-rate increase of about $1 per month has been proposed to fund continued upgrades to Rochester’s aging water infrastructure.

The budget funds critical investments in innovative programs and services that contribute to the city’s return to growth, rising property values, and improved economy. To help residents navigate these changes, funds have been included to promote enrollment in New York State’s recently increased property-tax exemptions.

For complete details on Mayor Evans' proposed budget, visit www.cityofrochester.gov/budget.