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Charlotte City Council approves $2.1 billion budget

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The City Council approved the fiscal year 2015 operating budget and five-year Community Investment Plan, which totals $2.1 billion Monday night.

The budget includes a 3 percent increase in water and sewer rates, as well as storm water fees.

The city says that's an increase of less than $25 a year for the average user.

The budget also includes a CATS fare hike of 20 cents.

“The City Council spent the last several weeks reviewing the City Manager’s recommendations, collecting public input and making adjustments as needed.” said Mayor Dan Clodfelter. “While navigating the process presented some challenges, I support the Council’s decision to adopt a budget that keeps the property tax rate flat, while sustaining the essential services of the City. As we look ahead, we know we must continue to support the growth of Charlotte but also provide a strong value for our citizens.”

Another part of the budget is a $145 million bond that would pay for transportation improvements like roads, sidewalks, bridges and traffic signals.

The rest would go toward affordable housing as well as starting a 26-mile-trail from Pineville to University City.

The bond issue will go before voters in November.