Cheyenne approves $82.8 million 2027 budget, adds third community service officer

Cheyenne's Committee of the Whole approved the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget on May 20, adopting a structurally balanced $82,765,026 spending plan and approving a council amendment to add one community service officer (CSO).

Mayor Patrick Collins presented the budget as balanced and structurally supported by recurring revenue streams, reporting an 11% increase over last year. "Our top revenue source is sales and use taxes," Collins said, noting growth tied in part to local data center development that produced a $5,275,000 increase in franchise fees. The budget proposes a 3% market adjustment for employees, a $1,000,000 transfer from reserves to reduce next year's health insurance increase, and conversion of nine SAFER-funded firefighters into the general fund for a recurring $889,649 expense.

The council debated several amendments before final approval. Dr. Aldridge moved an amendment to add one full-time CSO in police administration at a net operating cost of $80,875 (salary and benefits) while reducing the city council general discretionary line by the same amount; the motion noted the intent to improve local coverage and training continuity across wards. Police Chief Francisco said the position had not been part of his original request but called the idea "helpful," adding that CSOs are hard to recruit. After extended discussion about funding sources and department control over staffing, the amendment passed (6 ayes, 3 noes).

Councilman Moody proposed a separate amendment to transfer $100,000 from the council discretionary fund to the fleet maintenance fund for one-time equipment purchases (IDS diagnostic computer, two rotary lifts, a scissor lift, oil recovery systems, and a floor scrubber). Director Vicky Nemechek (Public Works) told the council some items were already planned and explained constraints in the internal service fund and labor chargebacks that limit immediate purchases. Members raised internal-controls questions and differing views about executive versus legislative priorities; the fleet equipment amendment failed (2 ayes, 7 noes).

Another amendment from Councilman Moody sought to eliminate a proposed GIS technician position (saving ~$103,083). The mayor and departmental leaders defended the new GIS role as necessary to keep up with demand across public works, planning, police and other internal customers; council members also discussed recent software upgrades (ArcGIS Pro) and cooperative services with the county. That amendment failed.

With amendments resolved, the Committee voted to approve the ordinance on second reading; the chair recorded 8 ayes and 1 no (Councilman Moody dissented). The budget will return for additional readings and final vote per the council's schedule.

The meeting included public comment urging investment in senior services and community recovery programs, and a separate council discussion about redirecting a $10,000 Chamber lobbyist allocation to Cheyenne Leads for economic development work. Several council members asked for further information from the Chamber's lobbyist before any administrative reallocation.

Next steps: the budget will proceed through required additional readings and the Committee of the Whole will reconvene for further consideration before the final council vote.