Temecula City Council approves detailed $70M fire and emergency management budget

The Temecula City Council convened on May 24, 2025, for a budget workshop focused on the fiscal outlook, strategic investments, and community priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. The meeting outlined key budgetary allocations and anticipated changes across various departments.

The fire department's budget for the next year is projected at $26.4 million. After accounting for a structural fire tax credit of $12.4 million from the county, the net cost to the city will be approximately $13.9 million. This budget reflects a significant increase due to the reversal of a one-time CalPERS reduction imposed by the state. The fire department will maintain staffing levels of four firefighters per fire engine and ladder truck, totaling 79 personnel, which includes two new fire inspectors added earlier this year. The department aims to uphold safety standards and maintain a high ISO rating, placing Temecula in the top 7% nationwide for fire suppression capabilities.

The emergency management budget is set at $70,886,000, focusing on community resilience strategies and training. This includes support for the Temecula Citizens Corps and plans for an alternative emergency operations center at the library, alongside the development of a city-wide mass evacuation plan.

The general fund, which encompasses public works and community development, has a combined budget of $47.1 million, reflecting a 3.1% increase from the previous year. This increase is primarily due to labor agreements and the need to replace aging equipment. The projected ending fund balance for the general fund is $35.5 million, with reserves fully funded at $26.7 million.

Measure S, a 1¢ transactions and use tax approved by voters in 2016, has generated nearly $240 million since its inception. For the fiscal year 2025-2026, revenue from Measure S is expected to rise by 2.7% to $40 million. Total appropriations are budgeted at $42.8 million, aligning with council policies that prioritize public safety, asset management, and community services.

Public safety funding is recommended at $13.7 million, which will support the sheriff's and fire department operations, including the staffing of 11 sheriff's deputies and future equipment replacements. Asset management funding includes a $1 million deposit into the streets maintenance fund and a $1.25 million deposit into the facilities replacement fund.

The budget also includes a five-year forecast for Measure S, projecting revenue increases of 2.5% to 3.5% annually. Over time, appropriations will gradually shift from capital improvement projects to higher levels of public safety and general services.

As part of the budget adoption process, a resolution approving the schedule of authorized positions and salary adjustments will be included. The total authorized positions for fiscal year 2025-2026 will increase to 202.2 full-time equivalent positions, with one new position in the public works department to assist with traffic signal operations.

Overall, the workshop highlighted Temecula's commitment to enhancing public safety, community services, and infrastructure while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The council will continue to refine the budget in preparation for final adoption in May.