City manager presents FY 2026 recommended budget; no property tax increase proposed

St. George staff presented the city manager’s recommended fiscal year 2026 budget, a $523,200,000 combined budget across more than 40 city funds, and said it includes no proposed property-tax increase.

"This year's budget does not propose a property tax increase," said Robert, the staff presenter, describing the document as a business plan that prioritizes utility and transportation infrastructure, public safety positions and equipment, parks and trails expansion tied to a 2023 general-obligation bond, technology enhancements and workforce development.

Robert said the budget is balanced and emphasized transparency: the full recommended budget is available on the city's website and in the city recorder's office. He announced opportunities for public engagement, including a tentative open budget town hall on May 29 and two tentative public hearings on June 5 and June 19.

Councilmembers praised the budget’s readability and transparency. Councilmember Natalie Larson and others said recent versions were easier for residents to navigate; one councilmember noted the total is down from last year after more than a decade of increases. "That has not happened, at least in the last 15 years that I went back," a councilmember said of the reduction.

Staff emphasized there was no action required tonight; detailed budget review will occur at upcoming meetings and hearings.

Sources: staff presentation and council discussion recorded during the budget item.