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Walnut Creek adopts FY26–27 operating and capital budgets and master fee schedule; council approves limited manager authority changes
Summary
Council adopted the city’s two‑year operating and capital budgets, master fee schedule adjustments and several budget resolutions, including an increase in the city manager’s one‑time transfer authority; fee study and future monitoring were discussed.
The Walnut Creek City Council adopted the proposed FY2026–27 operating and capital budgets, approved changes to the master fee schedule, and adopted related budget resolutions on June 17.
Budget Manager Mindy Azzavito presented highlights, including a $3.0 million planned use of pension resources over two years, a recommended use of general fund contingency for the General Plan update, and capital investments financed in part by Measure O and anticipated grants. Staff described a multi‑year Heather Farm Aquatic and Community Center project in the capital plan and discretionary projects such as traffic and pedestrian improvements.
Council reviewed adjustments to fees and charges across arts and recreation, community development (permit, planning and inspection fees), public works and general government. Staff said many fee changes are designed to better align fees with actual costs and that a more comprehensive fee study is planned for the coming year. Councilmembers asked for and received clarification that fee increases aim at cost recovery rather than profit, and staff said the city will balance cost recovery decisions with policy choices about accessibility and development incentives.
The council also approved modest changes to the budget resolutions, including increasing the city manager’s limit to approve operating transfers up to $124,999 to align with procurement signature authority and allowing the city manager to increase appropriations for unanticipated donations or reimbursements and to return completed capital project funds to source for future reappropriation.
Council and the finance committee acknowledged the long process of identifying necessary reductions and preserving key priorities; several members praised staff for minimizing disruptions while addressing a tight revenue outlook. The council adopted the budget and associated resolutions unanimously.
Staff will continue regular monitoring of state and federal revenue developments and report back to council on changes that affect the budget.
