Finance committee weighs FY 2026–27 budget, directs cuts to discretionary chambers upgrades

The Rolling Hills Estates Finance, Budget & Audit Committee reviewed the recommended fiscal year 2026–27 budget and asked staff to reduce discretionary council‑chambers improvements while keeping state‑mandated accessibility and cybersecurity upgrades.

Robert, the city’s finance lead, told the committee he updated revenue projections through March 31 and adjusted proposed expenditures. He said building‑permit revenues have softened — "I lowered my projection to 496" from roughly $600,000 — and that overall next‑year revenue projections rose slightly from 2,779 to 2,798 in the packet. On the expenditure side, he said staff balanced a status‑quo budget with a few targeted changes and now expects a small surplus of about $33,000, down from an earlier estimate near $95,000.

The debate centered on three departmental changes staff flagged: Planning & Development (an increase of about $28,600), a modest…