Finance committee gives favorable recommendation for FT 1026 to fund deputy chief of staff through June 2026

The Finance Standing Committee on April 13, 2026, voted to give a favorable recommendation on FT 1026, a proposed transfer of unused debt service funds to the mayor's office to cover the deputy chief of staff position through the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2026.

Alderman Thorpe urged the committee to approve the transfer, saying the routing of this expense through the finance committee and city council demonstrates transparency. "I applaud that requirement," Thorpe said, arguing the action follows the city's required code process and will ensure the city can pay the position when a person is hired.

The committee chair said the recommendation was appropriate and framed the transfer as using savings rather than diverting funds from other projects. The chair added, "we're finding savings and being able to put those towards something that helps deliver on that customer service promise," and noted comfort in ensuring the position is funded through the fiscal year.

A motion to make a favorable recommendation on FT 1026 was moved by Alderman Thorpe and seconded from the floor. The committee approved the motion by voice vote; the chair announced, "Motion carries." The transcript records members responding "Aye" but does not provide a roll-call tally or a dollar amount for the transfer.

In other business, staff indicated the upcoming budget materials would be distributed digitally and the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) book is available online. With no further business, the committee adjourned.

The favorable recommendation for FT 1026 will be transmitted to the full council as the next procedural step; the transcript does not record a council vote or an implementation date beyond the fiscal year end of June 30, 2026.