Committee refers FY2025–26 budget measures to full council after department presentations

The Committee on Planning, Zoning, and Housing met May 6 and voted to refer three budget resolutions for fiscal year 2025–26 back to the full City Council with neutral recommendations after department heads outlined key cost drivers and answered members’ questions.

The committee approved referral motions by voice vote on a general fund resolution (item 36785-1), a special revenue and enterprise funds resolution (36786-1), and the capital improvement appropriation (36767-1). Each motion was made and seconded on the record and carried by the committee; the chair announced, “The eyes have it.” No numerical tallies were given in the meeting minutes.

Why it matters: the presentations highlighted specific pressure points that will shape council-level debate — notably the police department’s new technology contract, the fire department’s overtime and contractual obligations, persistent staffing and inspection backlogs in building and health, rising part-time wages for recreation programs, and higher utility and IT costs across city facilities.

Chief Marino, presenting the police budget, said the largest single increase for the department is the Axon contract for consolidated…