Belmont audit committee reviews proposed $94.3 million city budget, flags state VLF uncertainty

Belmont City’s Audit Committee reviewed a proposed fiscal year 2025–26 budget that totals about $94.3 million citywide, including an $80.8 million operating budget (including fire) and a $13.5 million capital improvement program, Budget Manager Joanne told the committee.

The presentation said the general fund is budgeted at about $32.9 million while total staffing remains unchanged at 144.75 full-time equivalent positions. Joanne said the budget does not include a shortfall in Vehicle License Fee (VLF) reimbursements the state currently owes the city and that if the state repaid that amount the general fund would balance without drawing on reserves.

Why it matters: Committee members pressed the magnitude and reliability of state-held revenue streams that make up a substantial portion of Belmont’s tax base. The presentation projected that if VLF reimbursements are not restored, Belmont could face widening annual shortfalls and draw on reserves over the next decade.

Joanne walked the committee through revenue and spending composition, showing that personnel costs…