Positions for three fire captains and three firefighters would be eliminated, saving the city $416,000. It is expected that those employees would fill vacancies within the fire department.

The city's police force will see an increase of five full-time employees in its support staff under Becker's proposed budget, allowing two sworn officers in support roles to serve in the field. The new positions combined with officers added in previous years who are completing training would create a noticeable increase in officers patrolling neighborhoods and city streets, Becker said.

The mayor also made it a priority, he said, to "take good care" of the city's 2,800 employees.

"I didn't want to balance the budget on the backs of our employees who come in, work hard every day and deserve to be treated with respect," he said.

The mayor's proposed budget calls for pay adjustments and merit increases, though employees will now be responsible for 5 percent of health insurance costs. A no-cost option previously had been available to city employees.

A 10 percent inflationary increase for city fees — including inspection, demolition, planning and zoning, cemetery and impound fees — are necessary to cover the cost for providing city services, Becker said.

Fee increases for business licenses, taxi-cab driver badges and parking at Library Square also are proposed.

Becker's budget reflects several priorities set during his campaign, including support for the environment, transportation and city services. Among his proposals:

• $500,000 for bikeways and trails — an increase of $450,000 — including $75,000 for a new position to coordinate the city's efforts.

• $500,000 to preserve the warehouse north of the intermodal hub as a possible site for a year-round public market.

• $100,000 to begin environmental studies in partnership with South Salt Lake and the Utah Transit Authority for the Sugar House street car.

• Conversion of 10 vehicles in the city fleet to electric cars, reducing the city's demand for fuel.

Complete text of Becker's budget can be viewed online at www.slcgov.com/finance/2009budget/BBmayor09.pdf.

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E-mail: jpage@desnews.com