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Hammond council adopts FY2026-27 budget after small capital swaps to fund parks
Summary
The Hammond City Council approved the fiscal 2026-27 budget on June 23, adopting 23 capital amendments that shift money between projects to add lighting at Mooney Avenue Park and delay select drainage and bridge projects.
The Hammond City Council voted unanimously June 23 to adopt the city's FY2026-27 budget after approving a package of 23 capital amendments and one sales-tax fund change.
City finance staff presented an amended consolidated budget and said updated revenue through roughly nine months of the fiscal year allowed a slightly higher revenue projection; "we're still in the black," staff said. Council approved moving a set of capital projects that partly funded a $175,000 increase for lighting improvements at Mooney Avenue Park, a $20,000 pushback of a White Street sidewalk, and a $55,000 reduction in the FY2028 drainage plan for JW Davis phase changes.
The shift prompted an extended exchange about district allocations and park needs. Councilman Wells said he brought five young residents to the podium to press for park amenities: "Football," the youths said in turn, and Wells told the council he wanted lighting and a half-size football field toward the back of Mooney Park. City staff replied that the splash pad is being fenced and should open soon and that most park grant funding is limited to outdoor recreation, which prevents adding indoor buildings; staff said transportation to the recreation center might be offered as an alternative to locating indoor facilities in the park.
Finance staff and council members walked through the adjustments on the record, noting a $230,000 bridge project had been deferred and other moves freed funds for park improvements. After a motion to amend the budget to include the listed adjustments, the council made a second motion to adopt the budget as amended; roll-call votes recorded "Aye" from Councilwoman Gonzalez, Councilman Andrews, Councilman Devotario (recorded spelling), Councilman Wells and Councilman Leon. The council clerk recorded the ordinance as finally adopted.
The council also noted the mayor's office had approved the presented changes and that staff would supply more granular, line-by-line numbers on request. The council adjourned after completing the business on the agenda.
