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Committee backs 2.2% CPI increase to citywide fees, staff to solicit fee study
Summary
The Finance Committee voted to recommend a 2.2% CPI-based increase to the citywide schedule of fees and service charges for FY 2026–27 and directed staff to pursue a fee study to update cost recovery practices last reviewed in 2015.
The Salinas Finance Committee voted to recommend that the City Council adopt a 2.2% consumer price index increase to the citywide schedule of fees and service charges for fiscal year 2026–27.
Abe Pedroza, assistant finance director, presented the annual fee update and said staff recommends a 2.2% CPI adjustment under Salinas Municipal Code Chapter 11B. Pedroza noted the city last conducted a comprehensive fee study in 2015 and that staff plans to solicit a consultant to ensure fees better recover costs without overcharging residents.
Pedroza told the committee that 96% of fees (excluding mandated or intergovernmental fees) are being recommended for CPI increases, while some fees are constrained by mandates or county agreements. After staff clarified outreach to the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Alliance of Monterey County, a council member moved and seconded a recommendation that council adopt the 2.2% CPI increase; the committee approved the recommendation by roll call.
Staff said the item will be presented to the City Council on April 21 and that the staff report will include historical CPI comparisons and outreach summaries. Committee members asked that the staff report also include context and perspective for council and the public so community members can better understand the city’s financial capacity and how fee revenue supports services.
