Galt City Council adopts FY 2026–27 budget, approves personnel and capital plan

The Galt City Council on Tuesday adopted its Fiscal Year 2026–27 budget, approving a $110.9 million package that includes $24 million for capital projects and several new or reclassified staff positions.

The vote was unanimous, 5–0. Finance staff presented a citywide revenue projection of $101.5 million — a 15% increase driven by higher taxes and permit activity — and described $9 million in planned use of fund balance for one‑time capital projects. The General Fund revenue projection rose about 21.8% compared with the prior year.

Council and staff emphasized that most of the budget’s gap is attributable to one‑time capital spending. Deputy Finance Director Carlos Lara and other staff told council that ongoing operations and maintenance expenditures total roughly $86.9 million while capital projects — including water main replacements, Deadman Gulch improvements and facility upgrades — account for the $24 million figure. Staff said fund balance use is primarily for projects funded by impact fees and other restricted balances.

The budget package included personnel requests: new positions such as a grants analyst/manager, a building inspector, a full‑time police office assistant, a street‑sweeper operator and a water system operator, plus a series of reclassifications and salary adjustments intended to aid recruitment and retention. Total personnel requests presented to council were about $812,000 in new requests across funds, with reclassification impacts of about $164,000 citywide.

Council members pressed staff for clarity on one‑time versus ongoing revenues, reserve policy and how Measure Q funds for parks and recreation would be used. Staff said Measure Q balances are being preserved for capital needs while the city will continue to contribute operational support (cash plus two maintenance positions) to Parks and Recreation consistent with council policy.

Mayor Rodriguez and the council credited finance staff for the presentation and stressed continued monitoring of revenue and labor negotiations in future cycles. The motion to adopt the budget passed by roll call vote 5–0. The council also approved several related items and amendments during the evening’s deliberations.

Next steps: the budget becomes effective July 1. Staff will continue developing detailed plans and return to council with implementation items and any required follow‑ups.