Derby City Council outlines 2026 budget focusing on public safety and infrastructure

The Derby City Council convened on July 8, 2025, to discuss the upcoming budget and various city projects for the next few years. The meeting focused on the financial outlook for 2026 and beyond, emphasizing the importance of conservative forecasting while planning for growth and infrastructure improvements.

The council began by reviewing the projected budget, estimating revenues between $80 million and $85 million. Officials expressed optimism about exceeding these figures, particularly with the implementation of the Derby Difference sales tax, which is set to run through December 30, 2034. This tax is crucial for funding public safety equipment, streets, sidewalks, parks, and trails.

Key highlights from the budget discussions included the addition of six new positions in 2026, which will enhance city services. These positions comprise three firefighters, a police department training captain, an assistant director for senior services, and two groundskeepers. Funding for these roles will come from various sources, including general and special funds.

Several significant projects were outlined for 2026, including the replacement of aging equipment such as the Derby Dash and Fire Engine 83, as well as upgrades to police department recording equipment and stormwater management initiatives. The council also discussed the need for a new building inspector and the potential for future collaborations with neighboring municipalities for inspection services.

The meeting addressed long-term planning, with discussions on the Vision Derby 2040 initiative, which aims to update the city’s strategic goals over the next five years. The council noted that while there are ambitious plans for neighborhood parks and infrastructure improvements, financial realities may necessitate adjustments to timelines and project scopes.

In terms of debt management, the council reviewed the bond and interest fund, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between retiring existing debt and issuing new bonds for future projects. The city aims to keep its debt levels below 20% of assessed valuation, currently standing at approximately 15.96%.

The council concluded the meeting by acknowledging the collaborative efforts of city staff in preparing the budget and the positive trajectory of Derby’s financial health. The next steps include a review by the planning commission on July 17 and a public hearing in August, leading to the final budget adoption.

Overall, the meeting underscored Derby's commitment to prudent financial management while addressing the needs of its growing community through strategic investments in infrastructure and public services.