PROVIDENCE, R. I. -- In a 9-to-6 vote, the City Council approved a $662 million spending plan for the fiscal year that begins July 1.
It's a slightly reduced version of Mayor Angel Taveras' $663 million proposal, but keeps his recommendation to freeze the commercial, tangible and motor vehicle tax rates. The administration and supporting council members say the freeze is one step of several to help spur economic growth in Providence.
"It's important that we send the message that we are open for business," Council President Michael Solomon said.
He voted in favor with Council members Michael Correia, Terrence Hassett, John Igliozzi, Wilbur Jennings, Nicholas Narducci, Bryan Principe, David Salvatore and Seth Yurdin.
The residential rate will increase, but not as much as Taveras initially suggested for those living in their homes. The council and administration cut $954,000 in expenses to bring that rate down from $19.50 to $19.25 per thousand of assessed value.
The current rate for these homeowners is $15.95, but the administration contends the recent revaluation softens the blow because many saw their house values decrease.
The residential rate for most landlords will increase from $27.11 to $33.75 per $1,000 of assessed value.
Council members not in favor of the budget said the residential increases will hurt the city's most vulnerable residents: renters and those on fixed incomes.
"The housing market in our city is just as fragile as the commercial," Councilman Luis Aponte said. "I can't in good conscience add to that burden."
He and council members Carmen Castillo, Kevin Jackson, Sabina Matos, Davian Sanchez and Sam Zurrier voted against it.
A second and final vote is planned for 5 p.m. Monday in City Hall.