Issaquah 2012 budget would mean no new taxes or rate increases

Issaquah residents won't pay increased city taxes or see an increase in sewer and stormwater rates next year, at least that is if Mayor Ava Frisinger's budget proposal passes.

Issaquah residents won’t pay increased city taxes or see an increase in sewer and stormwater rates next year, at least that is if Mayor Ava Frisinger’s budget proposal passes.

The mayor presented her 2012 budget to City Council Monday, along with a schedule of meetings to discuss each proposal in-depth.

The city’s $32 million budget is up about $1.5 million from last year, largely because of an about $845,000 increase in sales tax.

While Frisinger proposes eliminating a human resources position, she would hire four new people throughout the city. Issaquah currently has 228 employees.

During the recession, the mayor has had to slim down staffing and trim expenses to make ends meet, she said. “This budget continues this prudent behavior.”

A handful of building projects would continue next year, including a local improvement district to fix traffic problems near Costco.

He plan also continues support for building the first phase of Confluence Park, which is located behind the Darigold on Front Street North.