A Pittsburgh City Council member is proposing a partial hiring and spending freeze to avoid a tax hike. Councilwoman Teresa Kail-Smith says this move could prevent a future tax increase—something many residents can’t afford and to avoid potential layoffs.

While the mayor’s 2025 budget avoids a tax hike, Kail-Smith says early action could prevent bigger problems. Her proposal includes a hiring freeze for most roles, tighter spending controls, and limits on travel—though it hasn’t been formally introduced citing a need for more talks with council members and city leaders.