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San Marino council reviews FY2026–27 capital plan, flags timing risks for big-ticket items
Summary
City staff presented a draft FY2026–27 capital equipment and construction plan covering fire apparatus, public-works machinery, library upgrades and street projects. Council prioritized some safety items, debated timing of a $1.25M fire engine purchase and asked staff to pursue grant opportunities for larger infrastructure needs.
San Marino — City staff on Friday presented the draft FY2026–27 capital equipment and construction plan and asked the City Council to weigh several high-cost, multi-year purchases while revenues remain uncertain.
Director Shaw reviewed equipment requests, project status and a five‑year forecast, saying the city will hold an operating budget study session on April 24 and aims to adopt the final budget May 29. “This first item is to present a review for the draft fiscal year 2026-2027 capital equipment and construction plans in our five-year forecast,” she told the council.
Why it matters: The packet includes several mission‑critical replacements — most notably a Type‑1 fire engine with an estimated total cost staff cited in the packet at about $1.353 million, though the manufacturer quoted $1,255,220 if the city issues a purchase order before July 31. Councilmembers pressed staff on whether the city should execute a purchase agreement before two key local revenue measures are resolved later this year.
City Manager (unnamed) said staff’s recommendation was cautionary: delay signing the purchase agreement until after the November utility users tax election unless the council is prepared to draw more heavily on reserves. The chief confirmed a manufacturer quote valid through July 31 and said the current delivery lead time remains about 44–48 months.
What the council decided: Members asked staff to continue preparing cost estimates and to return recommendations on timing. On several smaller items, the council gave clear direction during the meeting: it moved the fire department’s new turnout hoods and turnout gear back into the capital side for purchase this fiscal year (a $55,000 adjustment) and directed staff to reduce library public‑PC replacements this year to four machines while seeking foundation support for the balance.
Other highlights: Staff outlined major CIP projects in design or construction including street rehabilitation (a multi‑year biennial program and a new slurry‑seal preventative maintenance component), a planned Lacey Park culvert replacement (design in progress; estimated $7 million to construct), alley and parking lot improvements out to bid, and a range of recurring programs such as sidewalk repair and median/tree management.
Funding and next steps: Several councilmembers urged staff to pursue federal, state and Metro grant opportunities and to make projects shovel‑ready before seeking external dollars. Director Shaw said having design documents would strengthen the city’s eligibility for competitive funding. Staff will return with refined numbers and any requested adjustments during the upcoming budget hearings.
The council approved the consent calendar later in the meeting and moved on to operating‑budget study items scheduled for April.
