Norman council adopts FYE 2026 budget with amendments for transit, solar and water reclamation

The Norman City Council unanimously approved the fiscal year ending (FYE) 2026 operating and capital budgets, including the Norman Convention and Visitors Bureau detailed annual plan of work, at a June 10 special meeting. Council members approved a package of line‑item amendments that added money for social services, arts and historic institutions, solar energy projects, water reclamation facility renovations and expanded on‑demand transit services.

Why this matters: The adopted budget sets city spending priorities and carries implications for service levels if sales tax revenues fall short. Council members and finance staff told the public the city remains dependent on sales tax revenue and faces pressure from rising costs such as health care claims.

The adopted amendments included a $25,000 increase to general‑fund allocations for social and voluntary services (moved by Council Member Montoya), an $11,200 increase to parks and recreation allocations for contributions to the historical museum and the performing arts studio/depot (moved by Council Member Peacock), and a $200,000 increase in the sanitation fund to pay for solar arrays at the transfer station (moved by Council Member Grant). Council approved a…