Wilmington Public Works requests $40.8 million in FY26; council presses on paving, ADA ramps and staffing

Wilmington’s Department of Public Works presented a proposed FY2026 operating budget of approximately $40.8 million combined for the general and motor vehicle funds and answered detailed questions about street paving plans, ADA curb ramps, contracted maintenance and workforce vacancies.

The department requested $31.4 million for the general fund (an increase of about $1.47 million) and $9.5 million for the motor vehicle fund. Personal services make up most of the general fund increase; material, supplies and equipment lines and a rise in contracted maintenance and brine equipment support also figure prominently.

Why it matters: street paving, sidewalk repairs and sanitation services are high‑visibility city services that directly affect residents’ daily life and local economic activity. Council members repeatedly sought details on scheduling, funding sources and accountability for contractors and utilities performing road cuts.

Highlights of the presentation included an itemized account of personal‑service changes, a description of split‑funded positions, and line‑item increases for repairs and building maintenance tied to the municipal service complex. The department noted…