Title
2027 Proposed Operating Budget - Second Public Hearing
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee
City Manager Recommendation:
Hold a second public hearing on the 2027 Proposed Operating Budget
Report
Issue:
Whether to hold a second public hearing on the 2027 Proposed Operating Budget
Staff Contact:
Mike Githens, Finance Director; 360-753-8465
Presenter(s):
Mike Githens, Finance Director
Background and Analysis:
The 2027 budget process began in June 2026. On June 9, City Council received an initial update outlining budget assumptions and dedicated General Fund revenues. Subsequent updates provided additional detail on operating assumptions, revenue and expenditure forecasts, and potential enhancement requests. Staff have continued refining these elements to develop the proposed budget and its key financial components.
The City Manager presented and discussed the 2027 Proposed Operating Budget with City Council on June 9, August 17, September 15, October 20, and November 10, 2026. The proposed budget reflects feedback received during those discussions, maintains basic service levels and programs, and includes limited enhancements in priority areas.
At the November 10 meeting, City Council received an update on budget balancing and discussed the City Manager's recommended enhancements. This second public hearing provides an opportunity for the public to provide testimony on the proposed budget.
The 2027 Proposed Operating Budget includes appropriations to fund:
General Fund - basic core municipal services such as Administration, Engineering, Finance, Fire, Human Resources, Information Services, Legal, Parks, Planning, Police, and Transportation.
Debt Service Funds - debt service to support outstanding debt obligations.
Enterprise Funds - Drinking Water, Wastewater, Storm and Surface Water, and Waste ReSources utility operations.
Special Funds - appropriations for Inspire Olympia, Lodging Tax, Parking and...
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