The proposed 2016 Junction City budge draft by city management to the City Commission contains a slight increase in the property tax levy of .397 of one mill.

That is a starting point as the City Commission begins budget deliberations, and is not final.

Cheryl Beatty, Finance Director, said there would be an eight percent increase in dental insurance but no increase in health insurance. “That is phenomenal. And that’s because of low usage by the group.”

Other features include a proposal for an additional $100,000 for street improvements bringing the total suggested for 2016 up to $1.1 million, the City contracting with Opera House Inc. to manage the C. L. Hoover Opera House, and no grant funds, and no increase for the EDC budget. “Capital Outlay assumes no new project, fire reserve remains at two mills.”

Officials noted the annual property valuation numbers for the city will not be available until after July 1.

The Commission has the management recommendations and this week began a series of three budget work sessions where they are hearing from City department heads on their needs, and recommendations for 2016.

No final action will be taken on the budget until later in the summer.