(COLORADO SPRINGS) — On Tuesday. Nov. 26, Colorado Springs City Council passed the city's 2025 budget with a 2.4% increase over 2023. According to the City, sales tax revenue is expected to increase by 3.5% in the next year, though revenue increases are not expected to fully cover the increased costs of providing key services to those who live in the area. The City said budget reductions from 2023 have been kept in place, along with re-budgeting savings from 2024 to 2025, and utilizing $3.9 million of reserved funds, "to ensure a balanced budget and the responsible use of taxpayer dollars." “I'm grateful to the City Council for their hard work and dedication in passing the 2025 City budget,” said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “The budget reflects months of collaboration, feedback, and careful planning, all aimed at ensuring that our city continues to thrive while addressing the most pressing needs of our residents including public safety, city cleanup, and issues surrounding homelessness.”  The complete proposed 2025 City budget is available at ColoradoSprings.gov/Budget.   The City said it will also continue to cap its 2025 property tax rate, providing relief to the community from increased property taxes.  2025 General Fund Highlights:  The addition of 20 police officers. The addition of three Police Department civilian positions in the areas of photo enforcement, Training Academy support, and the body-worn camera program.  Continued funding for the replacement of police department emergency vehicles and fire department apparatus.  Continued funding for the Homeless Outreach Program (HOP) in the Fire Department; this program provides resources and navigation for access to healthcare, housing, and mental and behavioral health resources.  Continued funding for the Police Department’s Homeless Outreach Team (HOT).  Compensation increases of 2% for all police and fire sworn employees and an average of 2% pay for performance increase for civilian employees.  An additional Quality of Life Team in the Neighborhood Services Division, added by reallocating vacant positions and associated funding from other areas of the organization.  A maintenance technician in Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services to address neighborhood parks, including the new Grey Hawk Park.  Transfer four vacant positions to housing services, replacing positions that were previously grant-funded.  Continued funding of $500,000 for shelter bed operations for people experiencing homelessness.  Transfer the Neighborhood Services Division to Public Works Operations and Maintenance, to increase efficiencies of equipment use and work assignment.