The Bakersfield City Council got a preview of the upcoming budget, which is expected to cost about three percent more this year.

The biggest increases in the $494-Million plan would come from pensions, but Assistant City Manager Chris Huot is optimistic that rising oil prices will help cover those costs along with a rise in property tax revenues.

The budget also would increase trash fees by two percent and provides money to hire three more police officers to patrol downtown.

A final vote on the plan is scheduled for June 28th.

Kelli Forsch