The proposed 2009 Topeka city budget has been given to the city council. Members will now review it, request changes and see how it turns out by August 19, the final day action can be taken on the budget.

Click the link below to read the entire budget for yourself, and leave your comments below.

The proposed budget stands at $196,386,216, with more than $36 million required from property taxes. The mill levy to support the budget would be 35.3, which is a 2.9 increase.

City Manager Norton Bonaparte's letter to the council states this is required to maintain crucial services. It does not include any new programs.

It includes a small 1.5 percent raise for city employees eligible.

There are several reductions from 2008 that illustrate the need for the mill increase. Thouse include:

$95,060 reduction from the Topeka Fire Department. There are days that the Fire Department will not operate all 18 companies.

$107,505 reduction from Parks and Recreation. This includes employee overtime.

A reduction of $232,208 from Topeka Police Department.

Click the link for a full copy of the budget.