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Council introduces capital budget amendments as residents seek clarity on contingency use
Summary
Council introduced amendments to the FY2026 capital budget and reserve spending plan; public commenters and council members asked how much of the contingency fund and projected revenues (federal funds, interest, Special Cities Fund) will be used and whether grant funding is secured.
Council introduced an ordinance amending the City of Scranton’s FY2026 capital budget and capital reserve spending plan, prompting questions from members and residents about where added revenue assumptions are coming from and why contingency funds appear to be reallocated.
The introduced amendment (filed as an amendment to file to council number 91 20 25) adds line items including officer safety equipment and modular vehicle barricade security for firehouses. Council members asked whether the revenue increases cited (federal funds, Special Cities Fund, and a projected $100,000 in interest income) are realized receipts or projections and requested administration detail on timing and certainty. One member requested an update on a $350,000 grant application for predesign and oversight of a new Engine 10 building.
During public comment, Joan Hodowanitz urged transparency about amendments and observed that $192,000 would be drawn from the city contingency fund (a $500,000 fund), reducing contingency by a large percentage. City staff said attachments and project invoices exist and will be forwarded or linked on the city website. Council asked for additional documentation before final committee consideration.
