City Council reviews draft budget for fiscal year 2025-26 amid economic uncertainties

San Bernardino's city council is taking significant steps to address community concerns and fiscal challenges as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year. During the SBCC Special Meeting on May 3, 2025, city officials presented a balanced budget proposal for fiscal year 2025-2026, emphasizing the need for fiscal sustainability amid economic uncertainties.

A key focus of the meeting was the proposed budget for capital improvement projects (CIP), which aims to enhance street conditions, public parks, and overall city beautification. Residents have expressed frustration over delayed projects, with one speaker highlighting a personal wait for alley improvements since 2019. The council is now prioritizing increased funding for these essential services, which include addressing overgrown weeds and illegal dumping on city freeways.

City Manager and finance officials outlined the budget's conservative approach, projecting a modest 2.5% increase in revenues while implementing a 5% reduction in operational expenditures. This strategy aims to ensure that the city can maintain essential services while navigating a complex economic landscape characterized by rising costs and fluctuating sales tax revenues.

The meeting also addressed the importance of monitoring economic indicators, such as unemployment rates and housing affordability, which directly impact the city’s financial health. With the county's unemployment rate at 5% and housing costs consuming a significant portion of residents' incomes, the council is committed to making informed decisions that reflect the community's needs.

As the city moves forward, officials plan to hold additional budget workshops leading up to the final budget adoption before July 1. This proactive approach aims to keep the community informed and engaged in the budgeting process, ensuring that San Bernardino can effectively respond to both current challenges and future opportunities.