Fruita — The Fruita City Council approved a package of budget measures Tuesday that includes the 2026 fee schedule, adoption of the annual budget and formal appropriation of funds.

City manager Shannon Vossel told council the 2026 budget carries an overall fiscal impact of $28.2 million, about $2.0 million in interfund transfers and $1.1 million in use of available fund balance, largely for capital projects and equipment. Staff recommended adoption and the council approved Resolution 2025‑44 adopting the budget by a 6-0 roll‑call vote.

Council also approved Resolution 2025‑43, the city’s schedule of fees and charges for 2026. Notable changes include a 2% increase for sewer rates, a 5% increase for trash service, and the addition of a veteran/active‑military 25% discount on community center day passes and memberships. The council approved a $75 initial offender‑registration fee and a $25 annual fee for offender registration; staff said the fee is consistent with state statute authority. The fees resolution passed by roll call vote 6-0.

Following adoption, the council approved Resolution 2025‑45 to appropriate the funds so city departments can legally expend the adopted budget. Vossel reminded the council that appropriation is required before spending; the appropriation resolution passed 6-0.

Vossel said development impact fees will continue to be adjusted annually by the consumer price index per municipal code and noted staff clarified language allowing the city to bill developers for legal review in excess of three hours. The budget document will be finalized online now that council has adopted it.

What happens next: staff will upload the final budget documents, and departments will begin implementing approved capital projects and the staffing/operational items included in the adopted budget.