The West Columbia City Council passed first reading of $22.4 million budget, Tuesday, at its regular May meeting. The budget contains no tax increase. Council also passed a $23.2 million budget for the city’s water and sewer operations. Both budgets were passed for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, beginning July 1.

In an information sheet made available by the city, several items were emphasized that are addressed in the budget. They are: enhancing the sanitation department’s efficiency with equipment; enhancing online services to maximize economic development goals; improvement of the water and sewer infrastructure; enhancing the efficiency of police and EMS; expanding and maintaining the water and sewer system; and attracting new industry, tourism, events, beautification and increasing traffic access.

The next reading of the budge, and public hearing is scheduled for May 15 in council chambers.