Buellton adopts first‑quarter budget amendments, pledges $500,000 to aquatic center

The Buellton City Council adopted Resolution No. 26‑01 on Jan. 9 approving first‑quarter amendments to the fiscal‑year 2025‑26 budget.

Finance Director Chanel Zamora presented the amendments, saying the proposed funding sources increase by $641,501 while proposed expenditures increase by $707,539. Zamora said most increases reflect previously authorized items and operating changes; the largest single item is a $500,000 pledge related to the Santa Ynez Aquatic Center that will be reflected in future appropriations.

Zamora told council the budget amendments are balanced overall, with proposed transfers and adjustments that result in a net use of reserves of $594,132 for the quarter. "The proposed funding source increases by 641,501 and proposed expenditure increase of $707,539," Zamora said, adding that a sizable portion of the reserves use is the aquatics pledge.

Council members questioned whether reserve transfers were being used for ongoing operating costs or capital projects. Zamora clarified that $5.1 million in transfers out are for capital projects and that the $594,132 use of reserves primarily reflects one‑time items, including the aquatics pledge and a previously authorized general‑plan contract.

Council moved to adopt the resolution and approved it by roll call; votes recorded were unanimous. The resolution will be reflected in the city’s financial exhibits and staff will continue regular quarterly budget review and reporting.

The action does not change tax rates; it adjusts internal budget line items, recognizes grants (including an OTS grant of $47,369) and records previously authorized pledges and reclassifications.