Council hears FY26 budget presentations; communications, IT, public safety and utilities outline costs and priorities

SACO — Saco city leaders heard budget presentations Monday from seven departments as the council continued its review of the fiscal year 2026 operating plan. Department directors summarized expenses, staffing changes and capital needs and answered questions from councilors about service levels and next steps.

Communications and human resources director Emily Roy told the council the Communications Department’s FY26 operating budget is $261,376, financed largely through cable franchise fees. Roy said the city’s franchise agreement with Charter has expired and the municipality continues to seek agreement under Maine’s model franchise framework; staff said a consultant is providing updates and the city will call a cable committee meeting when negotiations advance. Roy also described proposed improvements including expanded wireless microphone capacity, ADA web compliance work ahead of a 2027 deadline, and a potential hybrid‑meeting RFP.

Roy also presented the Human Resources and fringe benefits budgets jointly with Interim Finance Director Judy Belanger. HR requested continuing funding for a part‑time HR generalist (added mid‑year FY25), and emphasized recruitment, succession planning and wellness…