Hanford staff presents balanced draft operating budget for fiscal 2026–27; Measure H shown separately

Hanford — City finance staff presented a draft operating budget for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 at the Hanford City Council study session on May 6, showing a structurally balanced general fund plan and separate accounting for Measure H revenue.

Finance Director Chris Tavares told the council the proposed appropriations total about $140.8 million for fiscal 2026 and $150.8 million for fiscal 2027 and that the document before the council is a balance of ongoing revenues and expenditures. “It’s a structurally, balanced budget and that the revenues cover the ongoing expenses,” Tavares said.

The presentation outlined revenue and expenditure assumptions and the city’s timetable: staff will return for a final overall budget review on May 20 and for a public hearing and adoption on June 3. No votes were required at the May 6 study session.

City staff highlighted several items that drive…