Trenton council previews 2025–26 budget, schedules April 21 public hearing

Trenton city council members signaled broad support for the proposed 2025–26 budget at a study session, thanked residents for passing a bond that funds major facility projects and set a public hearing for Monday, April 21 at 6:45 p.m., with the regular council meeting and a final vote to follow at 7 p.m.

The budget discussion centered on bond-funded infrastructure work — including a new police and fire station — and the city’s approach to future facility maintenance. Dean, a city staff member, said the city will spend ‘‘every penny’’ of the roughly $43,000,000 in bond proceeds now planned for projects and that a dedicated, recurring building-reserve is not yet in place: “The short answer is no,” he said when asked whether the budget currently earmarks a single, citywide fund for building repairs. He added officials expect to set aside money in future budgets once the bond-funded work is complete.

Council members praised department heads and residents who approved the bond. Council Member Timbre said she would support the budget as drafted: “If I had to pass it tonight, I could pass it.” Council Member Scott described the package as “very, very good” and credited voters for approving the bond. Council Member Emily said the budgets appear ‘‘forward thinking’’ and include money set aside for vehicle replacement.

Council members pressed for clarity on long-term maintenance funding. Dean told the council there are some departmental reserves but no consolidated building-repair fund; he outlined a possible vehicle-replacement plan that could set aside roughly $500,000 per year and said the council will have to decide on an annual set‑aside once the bond funds have been expended.

Speakers also noted specific project costs during the session. When a council member asked about a parking-lot replacement at the Westfield Center and ice rink, Dean replied, “A million,” referring to the parking lot estimate.

City staff confirmed the schedule for public involvement and decision-making. Debbie, a city staff member, said, “We’ll have a public hearing on Monday, April 21 at 06:45. Our regular council meeting will follow that public hearing at 7PM, and that’s when we would vote on it.” No final vote on the budget occurred at the study session.

The study session ended without substantive amendments; council members asked questions and offered support, and the meeting was adjourned later in the session.