Oakland aldermen accept FY2026 budget reading, set public hearing for June

The Oakland Board of Aldermen approved the first reading of Ordinance 2505 adopting the fiscal year 2026 operating and capital budget and established a public hearing date in June.

Town Manager Mister Ellis presented the budget packet and noted a typographical correction to his title on the final page (changed to town recorder, Miss Bullock). Alderman Hummel and other board members asked for clarification on a $1,000,000 line item listed under pending capital projects for "city hall renovation." Ellis said that figure was a placeholder that would probably be revised based on recently received inspection and remediation estimates.

Alderman Hummel questioned whether the $1,000,000 estimate would be sufficient; Ellis responded that the draft was prepared before the most recent contractor estimates were received and that he would forward the updated mold and remediation quotes to the board. Alderman Campbell and Vice Mayor Cates supported moving the ordinance forward for the reading and scheduling the public hearing.

Board members also discussed staffing and departmental needs. Vice Mayor Cates asked the town manager to explore adding personnel to public works and parks and recreation, citing peer comparisons with nearby towns' public-works staffing levels. The budget package shows available funds in the water department and identifies areas where departments seek increased resources; the town manager said those items could be modified before final adoption.

A motion to accept the reading with discussed changes carried on a voice vote. The board set a public hearing in June to take public testimony before the ordinance's second reading and final vote.