Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Grand Junction unveils $316.4 million 2026 proposed budget with public‑safety hires and housing investments
Summary
City Manager Mike Bennett presented the recommended 2026 budget totaling $316.4 million, proposing 29 new positions (13 in public safety), a multi‑million capital program and one‑time funding to support housing and unhoused services; council introduced the appropriation ordinance (first reading) and added $30,000 for arts grants.
City Manager Mike Bennett presented the City of Grand Junction’s recommended 2026 budget to the City Council at a public hearing, describing a $316.4 million recommended budget, staffing changes, capital priorities and one‑time investments to address housing and services for unhoused residents.
Bennett opened the presentation by noting the city had received a favorable credit rating: “Standard and Poor's has assigned a double A rating to the city's upcoming general fund revenue bonds and a double A minus rating to the certificate of participations,” he said, citing the city’s reserve and financial‑management framework.
Budget highlights presented by staff:
- Total recommended budget: $316,400,000 (a decrease from 2025 largely tied to completion of major capital projects). - New positions: 29 total, including 13 in public…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
