Phoenix manager proposes $6.9 billion FY25-26 budget as council and public press for more fire and homelessness funding

City Manager Jeff Barton presented the proposed fiscal 2025-26 operating budget to the Phoenix City Council policy session, outlining a $6.9 billion citywide spending plan and a $2.2 billion general fund that city staff say is structured to preserve services amid shrinking revenues and legislative uncertainty.

The proposal divides the operating budget roughly into three parts: about 32% general fund for core services, 33% special revenue funds (including voter-approved funds and grants), and 35% enterprise funds such as water and airports. Staff said local sales and excise taxes are the largest single revenue source (about 43%), with state-shared revenues and property taxes also contributing substantial shares.

Council members and public commenters focused much of the discussion on public safety and homelessness funding. The proposed budget includes approximately $34 million in supplemental additions targeted largely to the Phoenix Fire Department, including converting 32 sworn positions previously funded by a SAFER grant into ongoing general-fund positions (described in the presentation as costing roughly $2.5 million next year and $5 million ongoing). The proposal also includes pre-hiring costs for a new station (described as 24 positions…