The COVID-19 pandemic hit the country in numerous negative ways, but Peoria’s local economy actually netted some positives, gaining ground in sales tax revenues, housing and small business permits.
To take advantage of this, city officials will ask the council to approve more than 35 new positions — largely in public safety — through a mid-year budget adjustment.
Peter Christensen, deputy finance director for budget and revenue, said about 37%, or about $63.4 million, of Peoria’s general fund, about $168 million, comes from sales tax revenue, which has benefited from a number of economic indicators during the pandemic.
