Mayor Vincent C. Gray Thanks Council for Passing FY2013 Budget That Closely Tracks His Priorities

(WASHINGTON, DC) – Mayor Vincent C. Gray today thanked the DC Council for its unanimous first-round approval of a Fiscal Year 2013 budget that is largely unchanged from the budget proposal the Gray Administration presented in March. Councilmembers voted 12-0 to approve the budget.

“I’d like to thank the Council for passing a balanced budget that includes no new taxes or fees and that closely tracks my priorities,” said Mayor Gray. “This budget will allow us to continue making important strategic investments – in areas like education, workforce development and public safety – at the same time as we protect our most vulnerable residents. I’d like to thank Chairman Brown for his leadership and the entire Council for helping to move this budget forward. This budget shows that the District can, and will, live within its means without leaving anyone behind.”

The $9.4 billion budget places a premium on fiscal responsibility by closing an anticipated $172.1 million gap between revenues and expenses without raising new taxes or adding new fees, and without dipping into the District’s crucial reserve fund. Mayor Gray and his budget team adhered to four basic principles in assembling his original budget proposal:

• Ensure a structurally balanced budget;
• No new taxes or fees;
• Continue strategic investments in education, public safety and workforce development; and
• Protect the District’s most vulnerable residents.

The Council may make minor alterations before the final budget vote, currently scheduled for June 5.