The South Bend Common Council adopted the City administration’s proposed 2019 budget during their meeting on Monday, Oct. 8.

The 2019 budget contains investment in health and human services, including funding for lead abatement, permanent supportive housing for homelessness, a workforce transportation pilot, and a system of lifelong learning. The city is investing in initiatives such as the curb & sidewalk program, the “Light Up South Bend” neighborhood lighting project and other neighborhood development programs.

The city is also expanding free WiFi along major corridors and expanding the parks system to neighborhoods without easy access to green spaces.

Over $75 million is allocated for the police and fire departments to continue public safety operations, including Shotspotter technology and a paramedicine program pilot.

Thank you to the Common Council for this approval, to our hardworking staff, and to all who engaged from the public to help establish a great budget for our city for 2019. https://t.co/ad1zgg4FAT

— Pete Buttigieg (@PeteButtigieg) October 9, 2018

The city released the following statement regarding adoption of the budget:

“The $368 million budget aligns administration, council, and resident priorities after months of public input sessions, Council budget meetings, and internal deliberations. It balances the general fund and preserves the City’s AA S&P Bond rating, which saves taxpayer dollars through very low interest rates on bonds, leases, and other financing options for capital investments.”