College Park council adopts $227.4 million budget for FY2026–27

The College Park City Council voted unanimously June 1 to adopt the FY2026–27 budget, a $227.4 million spending plan that officials said keeps the millage rate flat while adding a 4% cost‑of‑living adjustment for city employees.

Miss Hammond, presenting the recommended budget during a public hearing, said projected total revenue and expenses are $227,411,817, with a general fund of $58.3 million and enterprise and special funds making up the remainder. The presentation listed department alignments for quality of life, public safety, transportation, and economic development, and identified tourism and product development among priority projects.

Mayor Bianca Mley Broom declared the public hearing open for budget testimony and, after brief council questions about itemized debt and funding sources, the council moved and seconded a resolution adopting the budget. The motion passed by unanimous vote.

City Manager Michael Hicks said adoption allows staff to begin implementation work ahead of the July 1 start of the fiscal year, including finalizing personnel adjustments and program schedules. Council members noted the need to monitor spending that would require additional approvals and the council discussed using special calls if time‑sensitive items arise during the summer.

The council’s adoption authorizes the city to proceed with the budget as presented. No rollbacks, exemptions or reductions were recorded at the meeting; council members who spoke emphasized planning for anticipated program and infrastructure work in the coming year.