Hanford Development News

Hanford City Council Reviews Mid-Cycle Budget, Addresses Revenue Deficits and Proposes Appropriations

The Hanford City Council conducted a mid-cycle budget review for fiscal year 2026-2027. The review revealed deficits in major tax revenues, including sales tax and Measure H, projected to be under budget by $2 million and $2.1 million respectively. These deficits are partially offset by salary and benefits savings, and higher-than-projected property tax revenue. The council is considering additional appropriations totaling $1.25 million for the general fund and $10.6 million across other funds. Reductions in fleet reserves by approximately 44% are proposed as a temporary measure. The report also highlighted the need to monitor increasing operational costs, such as liability insurance, and the importance of maintaining adequate general fund reserves, currently projected to be around $10 million (26-27% of projected revenues), to manage future capital infrastructure needs and the public safety building project.