Clinton Council adopts balanced FY2026–27 budget, affirms downtown projects and nonprofit grants

Clinton — The Clinton City Council voted to adopt the fiscal year 2026–27 budget on second and final reading, approving Ordinance 706 after a roll call vote that recorded unanimous support from members present.

The budget passed following council discussion of amendments and related business earlier in the meeting. Mayor Burriss noted the city’s debt-free status as a milestone for local finances, saying the council could be proud of that discipline.

Council also considered multiple ordinance readings at the meeting. Ordinance 707, a fiscal year 2025–26 budget amendment, passed its first reading. Ordinance 703, which adds a new zoning section to regulate specialty and vape shops, and Ordinance 704, which amends the municipal code’s chapter on specialty shops, both passed on second and final reading. Resolution 855, allocating nonprofit appropriations for fiscal year 2027, was adopted by roll call vote.

City finance director Ms. Paul told the council that sales tax revenues remain strong year to date but flagged a one-time negative adjustment tied to a state appeal. Councilmembers pressed staff for further review of a state equalization process that the finance presentation showed reduced property tax collections compared with prior years.

The adopted budget includes allocations for downtown improvements and completion of projects such as Market Street rehabilitation and the renovated armory, which staff said is nearly complete and will have a ribbon cutting later in June. Council also approved a number of routine board and commission reappointments during the meeting.

The council concluded the agenda by approving a memorandum of understanding with the Clinton E-911 Emergency Communications District for transfer of equipment and by adopting the nonprofit appropriations resolution. The meeting adjourned after final business was concluded.