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Boulder council adopts 2026 budget ordinances after public hearing; Elevate Boulder funding discussed
Summary
Council adopted four 2026 budget ordinances including the city budget and appropriations; public comment highlighted the Elevate Boulder guaranteed-income pilot and staff said continuing it would depend on private fundraising and possible future city matching.
The Boulder City Council adopted the city’s 2026 budget and related ordinances on Oct. 23 after a brief public hearing.
Budget Officer Charlotte Huskey presented the recommended 2026 budget and six‑year capital program, noting a revised revenue forecast and an identified $7.5 million general‑fund shortfall addressed through reductions and realignments. The budget package presented included the Transportation Maintenance Fee revenue programmed at $2.25 million.
Council voted separately on each ordinance: Ordinance 8722 (adopting the 2026 budget) passed 8–1; Ordinance 8723 (property mill levies) was adopted unanimously; Ordinance 8724 (appropriations) was adopted unanimously; and Ordinance 8727 (various fee and tax adjustments) was adopted unanimously.
During the public hearing Maria Stepan, executive director of the Center for People with Disabilities, urged continued support for Elevate Boulder, the city’s guaranteed‑income pilot. City staff said the pilot had been funded with one‑time dollars and that continued operation would depend on community fundraising; staff indicated the city could consider matching private funds if sustained support was secured.
What’s next: The ordinances will be implemented per standard budget timelines; staff said they will continue monitoring service impacts and may return to council with additional conversation about reserve use and human‑services funding if community needs warrant it.
