Kansas City, Missouri's newly approved budget for the coming year still calls for fewer people and no raises. But last minute revisions eased some of the cuts in the original version.
The $1.5 billion spending plan the city council approved still pumps $80 million into long neglected pension funds and honors a fire department call for $10.5 million more to cover overtime and operating expenses.
But improved collections for ambulance services inspired number crunchers to restore a portion of cuts planned in three notable areas.
The version of the budget passed on Thursday restores $1.5 million for indigent health care services, $200,000 for neighborhoods and $60,000 for the American Jazz Museum.
The change most noticeable for many residents: sewer and storm water fees will increase another 13 percent.
The full council also approved plans to declare Kemper Arena surplus property and send out a nationwide request for proposals for the aging facility.
Action on a proposed ordinance setting fees for ride-hailing services like Lyft and Uber and one changing city “liquor card” rules were delayed until next week.
