The budget outlook for D.C. remains bleak. This year's deficit has ballooned to over $200 million and is expected to triple the following year. The city is required to close the gap and difficult decisions lie ahead.
As city hall gets ready to tackle the budget next month, D.C. Council Budget Director Eric Goulet warned there will be no quick or easy fixes. He also said it will be difficult to raise significant revenue through small fees and fine increases, which is how the city helped balance the budget last year.
Likewise, cutting back on spending will be equally challenging because most of the budget pays for schools, public safety and social services.
The budget season kicks off April 18, when the mayor submits his budget proposal to the D.C. Council. The council then has a little more than a month to balance the books.
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