HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Hutchinson City Council has reached its budget goal for this year.

With a combination of $500,000 in reductions and fee increases, the budget will accomplish two things. It will prevent a property tax increase and keep the end-of-the-year balance above $4.1 million.

The last round of cuts included the elimination of four more positions within the city. That brings the total number of employee reductions to 10. It also includes the removal of $100,000 from the city’s bridge replacement reserve and the use of a proposed $50,000 gift from the Gossage Trust for the animal shelter.

The budget also allows for a wage increase for employees. That will cost the city about $145,000.

The council will set a public hearing date during its Aug. 7 meeting.