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Lakewood releases conservative 2026 budget plan focused on core services, reserves
Summary
City staff presented a proposed 2026 budget that restores the property tax levy toward historical levels, relies on conservative revenue forecasts, and uses one-time fund balance for prioritized projects while preserving reserves and complying with TABOR rules.
Lakewood City presented a proposed 2026 budget that prioritizes preserving core services, cautious revenue forecasting and measured one-time spending to advance selected projects while maintaining fund balance reserves.
City Chief Financial Officer Bjorklund outlined the plan Wednesday evening at a city council study session, saying the budget process gathered input from council, the budget audit board, community members and staff throughout the year. “This process requires collaboration and effective teamwork to create a budget that is sustainable,” Bjorklund said during the presentation.
The proposal relies on conservative revenue expectations amid uncertain national and state economic conditions. Staff told council that taxes remain the largest revenue source (54% of all funds) and that the general fund comprises roughly 52% of total city spending. Bjorklund said Lakewood’s revenue growth has weakened relative to inflation since 2021 and…
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