PROSSER -- The Prosser City Council is considering increasing rates on water, sewer and irrigation service.

Otherwise, the proposed 2012 budget contains few changes from the year before because city officials last year passed a two-year financial blueprint that covers both 2011 and 2012.

Under the proposed budget, water rates would jump by 1 percent, sewer by 3.5 percent and irrigation by 5 percent. Overall, it would mean roughly an extra $2.64 on a monthly bill for an average household.

To help make up for a $100,000 shortfall in the general fund, which covers most day-to-day expenses, the city also may lower reserves and cut by one-third contributions to the Prosser Economic Development Association and the Historic Downtown Prosser Association.

The city already has lost about nine employees through attrition over the past four years.

Not included in the budget is the possibility of two more police officers at a cost of about $200,000.

The current force has 10 officers, not including Chief Pat McCullough, with plans to fill a vacant position for a total of 11. To keep up with growth, city officials are considering bumping that to 13.

The council will discuss the 2012 budget again at 7 p.m. Oct. 25 at city hall.

To view the entire proposed budget, visit cityofprosser.com.