GREENVILLE, N.C. — Public safety, infrastructure, affordable housing, recreation, and other core services are going to see more investment in the next year after the Greenville City Council approved the City's operating budget on June 12.

The $185.3 million spending plan aligns with the goals of the City Council and maintains the current property tax rate of 39.54 cents.

Nearly half of the City's budget is invested in public safety, with this year's spending plan including the addition of eight new police officer positions and six new employees in the Fire/Rescue Department. Additionally, the City is investing $200,000 in public safety recruitment and retention pay increases.

To increase affordable housing options, the budget includes $200,000 in new funding, with a goal of establishing a $1 million annual allocation within the next five years. A similar financial commitment was made for ADA and sidewalk expansion projects, with $400,000 included in the budget and a goal of establishing a $1 million recurring allocation by 2029.

Other highlights of this year's budget include:

• $500,000 for the City’s economic development partnership
• $250,000 for pedestrian safety projects
• $3.1 million in funding for the City’s Pavement Management Program
• $4.25 million in various capital project initiatives
• $375,000 in local funding for the City’s CDBG and Housing initiatives
• $800,000 to enhance the beautification of the city and its parks
• $100,000 for the Pitt County Arts Council at Emerge
• $20,000 for skills training at Pitt Community College
• Funding for the continued construction of The BUILD Grant, Phase 2 of Wildwood Park, and The Town Common Bulkhead and Esplanade Project
• $400,000 to support the City's Information Technology infrastructure
• An increase in the 401(k) employer contribution from 3% to 4% per pay period
• $4.25 million in pay-as-you-go funding for various capital project initiatives
• Funding and support for more than 50 community events