Boise City Council reviews 2026 balanced budget and property tax plan

The Boise City Council held an evening session on July 11, 2025, focusing on the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026. The meeting included a detailed presentation outlining the budget's major themes, financial strategies, and key funding decisions, culminating in a public hearing on the budget.

The proposed budget totals nearly $950 million, with the general fund, which primarily supports city operations, set at $331.3 million. This represents a modest 1.1% increase from the previous fiscal year. Key revenue sources include a projected 7.6% increase in property taxes, which will support core services and address pressing needs in public safety and infrastructure.

The budget process began with council workshops in March and included public engagement efforts, such as an online feedback tool launched in April. The final budget adoption is scheduled for August 26, 2025. The presentation emphasized the challenges faced in developing the budget, including rising costs in insurance, software, and personnel, alongside economic uncertainties.

The budget strategy is centered on four goals: minimizing disruption, ensuring long-term financial stability, addressing urgent needs, and building resilience against future risks. Notably, the budget includes 16 new positions across various departments, with a focus on public safety and operational capacity improvements.

Significant allocations within the budget include $10.1 million for major repairs and maintenance, more than double the ten-year average, and $26.4 million for capital projects aimed at enhancing city facilities. The budget also reflects a commitment to addressing deferred maintenance and investing in parks and recreation, with specific projects highlighted for funding.

The council is set to conduct two public hearings regarding the proposed budget, allowing for community input before final decisions are made. The meeting concluded with an invitation for questions from council members, emphasizing the collaborative approach to finalizing the budget.