Kalamazoo City Commission approves $344 million FY2026 budget
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Summary
The commission adopted a $344 million FY2026 budget after discussion about carry‑forwards, housing programs and lead-service line replacement; the adoption clears the way for staff to implement the city’s 2026 work plan and pursue related initiatives.
The Kalamazoo City Commission voted Jan. 5 to adopt the city’s annual appropriation for fiscal year 2026, approving a $344,000,000 spending plan and associated component budgets and fee schedules.
City Manager Malcolm Hankins presented the resolution; city staff said a carry‑forward amendment (for items such as commission funds) will be prepared and returned to the commission in March. Commissioner Bridal highlighted housing investments included in the budget, telling the commission she was “immensely grateful” the plan funds a home‑share program assessment and continued progress on lead service‑line replacement, which staff said will reach roughly 75% completion by year’s end.
Mayor Anderson and staff corrected earlier public confusion that the county — not the city — purchased a McDonald’s property and that the city is not building a $100 million administration building; the mayor said those county projects are not part of the city budget.
A roll‑call vote approved the appropriation and component budgets. Staff said adoption will let departments begin work with clearer fiscal authority and that amendments will still be possible during the year.
What’s next: staff will return with a carry‑forward amendment in March and will present candidates for additional program spending as subcommittees make recommendations.
