Madera Development News

Madera City Council Adopts $242.1 Million Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget, Prioritizing Capital Projects and Infrastructure

The Madera City Council reviewed and adopted the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. The budget totals $242.1 million, representing a 9.1% increase from the previous fiscal year, largely due to a $16.9 million increase in the capital program, specifically water capital projects, and a $3.3 million increase in materials and services, primarily for the 10x10 program. Total proposed revenues are $254.7 million, an increase of 9.5%. The budget includes $82 million in fund balances. Key appropriations include $63 million for Engineering, $103.5 million for Public Works, and $23.3 million for Police. The General Fund, totaling $47.4 million, will not use unreserved fund balance for appropriations. Significant investments are planned for street work, totaling $22.3 million, including $3 million for the 10x10 program expansion funded by Measure T dollars. Other budget items include a salary increase for some council members, an increase in council discretionary budgets, funding for the Woman of the Year program, replacement of council chamber seating, community fireworks celebration support, police equipment (radios, AEDs, command post, drones), fire engine, and a forcible entry training prop. Public Works will see dedicated sidewalk repair teams, maintenance for the wastewater treatment plant ($1.3 million), water well maintenance, a $30.2 million water storage tank construction, sewer main repairs ($3.9 million), and pipeline lining. Parks will receive funding for soccer goalposts and a floor scrubber. The Fire Equipment Fund will receive $490,000 for vehicle replacement. Measure K funding is projected at $7.2 million, split between police and fire. Stabilization funds for police and fire will increase, and the emergency reserve account will reach $14.2 million. No new debt is being issued, and $8 million in existing debt will be paid. Challenges include ongoing deficits for landscape maintenance districts and flattening gas tax revenues. The council approved the budget with several noted corrections.