BAY CITY -- Monday’s Bay City Commission meeting will be busy, and possibly heated as commission members consider asking residents for an increase from 17 to 19 mills; a tax increase in the most difficult of economic times for many.

“I can’t see anybody taxing themselves anymore,” said resident Don Ferry.  Others are willing to consider it depending on how the numbers affect their pocketbook.

“I would be open to it potentially,” said Diane Wolverton. 

The city is projected to be down $1.6 million in the next fiscal year.  Commissioners were given six options to help balance the books, including a 1 percent fee on property tax administration and 10.8 percent in city staffing reductions.

Mayor Charles Brunner said the commission will also closely examine a balanced budget presented by City Manager Robert Belleman.   As many as 19 jobs could be cut, but it’s not clear how many of those would be in public safety. 

Bay City lost six firefighters last year and closed a fire station due to budget strain.

“In most folks minds public safety is number one,” Brunner said.  “There is no question about it, but it’s just a matter of how much are they willing to pay,” he added. 

Brunner personally opposes the millage proposal and said the city needs to “reinvent government” by working “leaner and meaner.”

Monday’s meeting starts with finance committee work at 6:30pm at Bay City City Hall.