The city of Charleston approved the budget for the 2022-2023 fiscal year, but not without a lengthy debate. Leaders said the budget is balanced, creates no new taxes, and includes a seven percent cost-of-living increase for all city employees. The does not eliminate any positions or make cuts to overtime, including police, fire, and public works. The spending plan also sets aside $500,000 for demolition of abandoned and dilapidated buildings and includes a $3 million paving budget—for the fourth year in a row.