Saint George presents $523 million budget focusing on public safety and infrastructure improvements

The St. George City Council held a public preview of its 2026 budget on June 3, 2025, emphasizing transparency and community needs. The proposed budget is approximately $523 million, reflecting a decrease of about $4.2 million from the previous year, primarily due to the completion of new facilities.

Key projects highlighted include the new city hall and the main fire station, which is expected to be completed by July. The budget is divided into a general fund, which supports essential services like police, fire, and parks, and other funds for utilities and capital projects.

A significant investment this year is the $17 million airport traffic control tower project, aimed at enhancing passenger safety and accommodating larger aircraft. The airport has seen record passenger numbers, with over 36,000 monthly enplanements, prompting plans for terminal expansion and additional infrastructure improvements.

Transportation projects are also a priority, with over $20 million allocated for the extension of George Washington Boulevard and the Gap Canyon Parkway project, addressing the growing needs of the city’s southern areas.

The budget proposes 17 new personnel positions, primarily in public safety, to support the city's growth, which has seen an increase in full-time employees to around 900. Additionally, $20 million is earmarked for parks and recreation improvements, including enhancements at the Sun Bowl and water treatment facilities.

The city plans to begin construction on the Graveyard Reservoir project, with $9 million allocated in the budget, part of a larger $15 to $20 million initiative. Notably, there will be no increase in property taxes this year, although some fees for city services may see slight adjustments.

Public hearings on the budget will take place at City Hall on June 5, before the final budget is adopted. The city aims to maintain its reputation as a desirable place to live, focusing on providing essential services while managing taxpayer dollars effectively.