Parks Director presents $118 million budget to City Council for 2026

The Fresno City Council convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss the proposed budget for the Parks Department for the fiscal year 2026. Parks Director Aaron Gary presented the budget, highlighting a total operating budget of approximately $61 million, with an overall departmental budget of $118 million. This includes personnel costs, capital projects, and debt service.

Director Gary emphasized the importance of maintaining existing parks while also planning for new ones. The budget proposes the addition of 50 employees to assist with landscape maintenance, transitioning responsibilities from the Public Works Department to the Parks Department. This shift aims to enhance the maintenance of parks and recreational facilities across the city.

Key operational impacts discussed included a request for $260,000 to support new parks scheduled to open in 2026, such as the Cap Center and South Peach. The budget also reflects a reduction of $3.6 million in the general fund, achieved by reallocating expenditures to various funding sources, including Measure P and grants.

Several funding sources were identified, including federal and state grants aimed at improving facilities and community programs. Notable projects include the Maxey Park HVAC system upgrade and various improvements to existing parks, such as restroom replacements and playground upgrades.

The Parks Commission provided recommendations for the budget, which included motions for funding specific projects, such as a tot lot at Pink White and basketball court improvements at Nielsen Park. While some recommendations were incorporated into the budget, others were not, prompting discussions among council members about the prioritization of projects.

Council members expressed their support for the Parks Department, acknowledging its vital role in providing recreational opportunities for the community. Concerns were raised regarding the balance between developing new parks and maintaining existing ones, with discussions on how funding allocations might affect future maintenance capabilities.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue evaluating the budget and its impacts on the community, ensuring that both new and existing parks receive the necessary attention and resources. The council will reconvene to further discuss the budget and address any outstanding questions or concerns.