By Megan Braun

For the Salisbury Post

KANNAPOLIS — Kannapolis City Council unanimously approved on Monday a $64 million budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1 and ending June 30, 2017.

The budget is approximately $4.5 million larger than the fiscal year 2016 budget and includes no property tax increase, no water and sewer rate increases, and no storm water fee increases. There will be, however, a $2.50 per month increase in environmental fees due to the increase in costs to collect and dispose of garbage, yard waste, and recycling.

The 2017 budget includes the continued efforts to redevelop downtown Kannapolis through the Downtown Demonstration Project. It also includes funds for the renovations of two fire stations, a park expansion, and the construction of a new greenway. Also, the hiring of 10 new employees is included in efforts to improve city services.

The council also unanimously approved a resolution in support of the Lane Street and Jackson Park Road revitalization project. Ideas proposed include adding bicycle lanes and a turning lane to Lane Street, as well as a roundabout at the intersection of Ruth Avenue and Little Texas Road and widening Ruth Avenue. The council is working with the Department of Transportation and will continue discussion about the projects in the coming months.

The council also:

• Proclaimed the month of July as Parks and Recreation month

• Discussed appointments to the Community Development Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Downtown Kannapolis Inc. board, Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Board of Adjustments