FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer is proposing a $2.55 billion budget for the 2026 to 2027 fiscal year.
He says making it balance out has been a challenge.
“While FY27 has been challenging to say the least, I am pleased to report that revenues are trending upward year after year, which is good news for the city of Fresno. Unfortunately, they’re not trending upward at the same pace as our expenditures are,” mentions Mayor Dyer.
Mayor Dyer says rising costs are being driven by previously negotiated contracts, facility leases, software agreements and inflation.
To save money, hiring will be limited.
Still, the proposal includes several multi-million-dollar investments, such as a 10-year tree-trimming plan, an America 250 celebration and an increased focus on the unhoused.
Mayor Dyer explains, “Specific to public safety, both police and fire, the FY27 proposed budget does include one sergeant, five officers, the only general fund positions added in the FY27 budget. Again, that’s to form an additional Homeless Assistance Response Team.”
On Thursday, the mayor will formally present his budget proposal to the City Council for review.
Council President Nelson Esparza says they’ll be focused on how the budget will impact residents.
“How exactly the balancing was achieved, looking for any impacts on city service. As long as we can deliver a budget that minimizes those service impacts, I will be happy,” mentions Esparza.
Esparza expresses, “It’s our job to pass this budget. The budget is probably one of the most important things we do all year. We essentially go to City Hall, we camp out there all the month of June, until it’s done so.”
Once the budget is submitted to the council, they will have until June 23 to suggest changes and decide on budget approval.
By ABC 30’s Kassandra Gutierrez.
