Surprise budget funds resource center opening, McMicken Dam land acceptance and Special Olympics events

During the FY2026 tentative budget presentation on April 15, City of Surprise staff described personnel and one-time funding tied to community services, parks and recreation.

Staff told council the human services and community vitality department is budgeting staffing in preparation for a resource center expected to open in FY2026; construction is funded primarily with ARPA CARES Act money. The request includes positions to manage programs and facility operations when the center opens.

Parks Director Holly said the city has entered an intergovernmental agreement to accept about 3,500 acres at McMicken Dam; the FY2026 request includes hiring two park rangers and a supervisor to manage that land. Holly also listed park operations items such as utility increases, vehicles for sports programming and asset replacement projects. The parks request did not include one-time funding for the city's 250th Independence Day celebration; staff said any additional funding for that event would likely be a one-time appropriation outside the baseline budget depending on timing.

Council Member Duffy asked about funding for Special Olympics. Holly said the city is proposing one-time funding to host Special Olympics events at the new aquatic facility and stadium opening ceremonies, and staff are working on site adaptations such as bocce courts. Holly said Special Olympics previously left because the aquatic facility was too small and that the city hopes to host fall games in Surprise.

These items were presented for inclusion in the tentative budget; council will consider formal budget action beginning May 6.