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Fayetteville previews $273.8 million 2026 budget; general fund roughly $80.9 million
Summary
Finance staff reviewed the proposed 2026 all-funds budget of $273.8 million, with the general fund at about $80.9 million. Key additions include two police FTEs (SROs), a new stormwater fund, and modest personnel adjustments; staff said the budget is balanced with a one-time transfer and an estimated general fund ending balance of $32.4 million.
Fayetteville’s finance director presented highlights of a proposed $273.8 million all-funds budget for 2026, telling council the plan is largely similar to 2025 with specific additions and small adjustments.
The proposed budget allocates roughly $81 million to the general fund, about $69 million to water and sewer, and $34.5 million to sales-tax bond funds. Staff noted personnel expenses account for about 35% of total expenditures; the budget adds two police FTEs (the SRO positions discussed separately) and restores several other positions to full-time status. The presentation outlined a one-time transfer of roughly $800,000 from the sales tax capital fund to balance the general fund and estimated an ending general fund balance near $32.4 million.
Councilmembers asked for lists of (1) department requests that were not funded, (2) personnel requests that were requested but not budgeted for 2026, and (3) more detail on which community services positions remain funded by CDBG and the potential for shifting some costs to the general fund. Staff agreed to provide those items and said they would share requested supplemental documents (personnel detail, unfunded project lists) before the council meeting.
Next steps: The adoption resolution will appear on the council agenda next week for formal consideration. Staff offered to provide additional backup documents and to respond to follow-up questions about funding options for housing and community services.
