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City manager previews FY 2026–27 waterfront budget; parking revenue bright spot amid constrained uplands/tidelands funds
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Summary
City Manager Mike Watsanski told the Harbor Commission the city is preparing core revenue and expenditure estimates for FY 2026–27 and that parking and special‑event revenues are improving while uplands and tidelands remain constrained; staff hopes for six‑figure capital capacity rather than seven figures.
City Manager Mike Watsanski told the Redondo Beach Harbor Commission on April 13 that staff is beginning development of the fiscal‑year 2026–27 budget and will present more detailed revenue and expenditure estimates in the coming days.
"Our fiscal year runs July 1 through June 30," Watsanski said, noting the city is still assembling its core estimates. He said the waterfront's uplands and tidelands funds have been tight in recent years but that occupancy gains and lease extensions are producing improved revenue.
Watsanski said parking has been "one of the bright spots" for waterfront revenue after the city implemented pay stations and removed an old guard shack, producing month‑over‑month gains. He told commissioners he expects possible six‑figure capital availability in tidelands next year but not a seven‑figure uplift in uplands: "I would say in the 6 figure category, not the 7 figure category."
Commissioners used the briefing to offer a short wish list for the coming year, including Moonstone Park improvements, a better launch facility for Lanakila and expanded EV charging infrastructure. Watsanski said the city has pursued grants for EV work but that Southern California Edison’s timelines and capacity can limit near‑term deployment.
Watsanski also framed the city's capital pipeline: the pier parking structure project is nearing completion and some waterfront projects will remain priorities, but the cost of construction and staffing demands mean tradeoffs are likely when the council reviews the proposed budget.
The commission took no formal budget‑adopting action at the meeting; staff said the topic will be refined with the finance director and revisited as estimates solidify.
