North Las Vegas proposes $993M budget focusing on structural balance and staffing cuts

During the North Las Vegas City Council meeting on April 2, 2025, city officials presented a tentative budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026, highlighting a significant step towards financial stability with a focus on a structurally balanced budget. The proposed budget totals approximately $993.3 million, which includes essential appropriations for various city services and projects.

City officials emphasized the importance of a structurally balanced budget, which ensures that recurring expenses are covered by recurring revenues. This approach aims to prevent financial difficulties similar to those experienced in 2015. The budget includes a cost-of-living increase for city staff and allocates $6.4 million from the general fund for capital improvement projects. The city manager and finance team worked closely with department heads to identify and eliminate 21 long-vacant positions, streamlining the budget process.

The meeting also addressed the city’s financial health, with an ending fund balance projected at 30.47% of operating expenses, equating to about 3.5 months of operational funding. This balance is crucial for maintaining city services in the event of revenue fluctuations. Council members expressed their support for the budget's conservative approach, particularly in light of declining revenues from licensing and permits due to high interest rates affecting development.

In response to questions about future staffing needs and revenue generation from new projects, officials indicated that any necessary positions would be requested as supplemental needs in future budgets. They also noted that while construction permits from new developments like High Low Park are anticipated, the overall trend in revenue from these sources remains cautious.

The council's commitment to fiscal responsibility and sustainable growth was evident throughout the discussions, with members acknowledging the hard work put into creating a budget that prioritizes the city's long-term financial health. As North Las Vegas continues to grow, the focus on maintaining a balanced budget will be essential for supporting community needs and enhancing city services.