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Richmond council reviews initial FY2027 budget with proposed utility rate increases and capital projects
Summary
Council received the initial FY2027 budget presentation outlining a 3.5% COLA, no new full-time positions, proposed monthly utility rate increases (water +$1, sewer +$1, garbage +$2), and capital projects including sidewalk repairs, a parking expansion and equipment purchases.
City Recorder Justin B. Lewis presented the Richmond City Council with the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget on April 21, which the council reviewed as an initial presentation ahead of anticipated adoption in June.
Lewis said the draft budget includes a 3.5% cost-of-living adjustment for eligible employees and does not add new full-time positions. He listed project and funding highlights including sealing six sewer manholes annually (estimated $30,000 per year long-term), an increase of $45,000 for sidewalk repair (total $80,000), Quonset building improvements behind the Fire Station (estimated $35,763), and library and transportation grants that contribute to current-year project funding.
The council reviewed proposed utility-rate changes included for public discussion: a $1.00 monthly increase to the water utility rate, a $1.00 increase to the sewer utility rate, and a $2.00 increase to the solid waste/garbage monthly rate. Lewis also noted the Central Dispatch monthly charge will increase from $3.30 to $3.40 in line with a previously adopted resolution.
Capital items discussed included a proposed parking/roadway expansion on south 100 North (100 West to 175 West) estimated at $83,000 funded from RTIF tax receipts, and replacement/upgrade equipment purchases (a Caterpillar mini-excavator with a net estimated cost of $7,900 after trade-in and a John Deere Gator at $17,992). Council expressed consensus to order equipment to ensure delivery in the new fiscal year.
No final budget adoption occurred; staff will refine figures (including RAPZ allocations and property-tax estimates once County/State figures are available) before returning for further review and action.
