The Utica Common Council has approved a local law allowing them to exceed the 2 percent tax cap in the upcoming budget. 

In his proposed budget, Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri said a 7.8 percent tax increase is necessary to offset increased spending. 

The common council passed the law 7 to 2. 

One common councilor called the law a security blanket and hopes they won't have to use it, but city comptroller Bill Morehouse believes it will be impossible to stay below the tax cap, unless the common council makes major job and service cuts. 

A public hearing will be held regarding the local law.