Kingsford Heights holds public hearing on proposed 2026 budget; officials plan for three full‑time officers

The Kingsford Heights Town Council opened a public hearing Oct. 14 on the town’s proposed 2026 budget, announcing a maximum civil levy of $324,327 and specific fund allocations that include a local income tax projection of $36,001.14, a local road and street budget of $56,500, a park fund of $15,000 and a $750,000 local road matching grant.

The council chair said the advertised budget was drafted with the intention of adding three full‑time police officers next year but cautioned that the council will not know the final available funding until about Feb. 28, 2026. “This budget was prepared with the intention of having three full time police officers next year,” the chair said during the hearing.

Clerk/Treasurer Malika read the fund totals and emphasized the town must follow state rules for advertised budgets; she also explained that the state may lower — but not raise — the advertised figures. Residents and council members asked clarifying questions about how specific funds may be used, including whether local income tax (LIT) distributions can be split among departments and how motor‑vehicle highway (MVH) funds are restricted. Malika responded that MVH funds are restricted to highways and streets only.

Council members discussed timing and revenue uncertainty; the chair repeated that final figures will be clearer after the town reviews year‑end numbers and state determinations in late winter. The council closed the public hearing at 6:10 p.m. and confirmed the budget’s final adoption is scheduled for the Oct. 27 meeting.