The Clifton City Council held a budget meeting on April 8, 2025, where members expressed urgent concerns regarding the city's financial future. The primary focus was on the potential for a significant tax increase, with estimates suggesting a rise of 20 tax points, which could severely impact residents' affordability and drive them out of the city.

Council members emphasized the need for a thorough cost analysis and a commitment to creating sustainable budgets. One council member highlighted the importance of hiring a financial planning firm to provide expert guidance on budget management, suggesting that the city has been relying on one-time funds to cover ongoing expenses, which is not a viable long-term strategy.

The discussion revealed a consensus that the city has been facing increasing expenses—up 20% over the past three years—while relying on temporary solutions to balance the budget. Concerns were raised about the implications of these financial practices, including potential service cuts and layoffs if a more sustainable approach is not adopted.

Council members debated the merits of using surplus funds to address immediate budget gaps, with some advocating for a more honest budgeting process that would prevent recurring financial crises. The meeting concluded with a call for a commitment to long-term financial planning, emphasizing the need for a strategic approach to budgeting that would ensure the city's fiscal health and stability moving forward.