James Island presents draft FY2025–26 budget featuring new emergency response department and $1.2M in capital projects

Town of James Island officials on April 9 reviewed a draft town budget for fiscal 2025–26 that staff said will be refined before a public hearing on May 15 and second reading on June 19.

The presentation, led by Mike Hammer (staff member, budget presenter), laid out estimates for four primary funds — general, hospitality (H tax), accommodations (ATAX) and stormwater — introduced a new emergency response department in the operating budget and identified $1,239,000 in capital‑project allocations, of which about $1,153,000 are currently committed to ongoing or previously authorized projects.

Why it matters: the draft ties near‑term spending to several multiyear commitments and restricted revenue streams. Staff warned that if several committed projects draw funds in the same fiscal year, the town may need to use reserves or reprogram restricted funds.

Most important figures and program changes - General fund: staff estimated a rough general‑fund balance of about $2.5 million; an initial page in the draft showed a $730 surplus with revenues and expenditures laid out for the coming year. Hammer noted earlier assumptions included a potential $600,000 legislative grant that, according to a later update in the meeting, has been cut for the current year. - Capital projects: total proposed capital allocations of $1,239,000, with $1,153,000 identified as committed. Specific commitments…