Glasgow council approves first reading of FY2026–27 budget, 8–1

Glasgow City Council approved on first reading the city’s annual budget for fiscal year 07/01/2026 through 06/30/2027 by an 8–1 roll‑call vote.

Staff member Rich presented line‑by‑line fund totals and department estimates. He told the council the proposed total estimated revenue for the coming fiscal year is $29,214,790 and estimated expenses are $28,102,925.14, leaving projected year‑end fund balances across funds. The general fund revenue total referenced in the presentation was $22,113,775, and specific department estimates (police, fire, sanitation, landfill, recreation, transit and others) were read into the record.

Council Finance Chair Bunnell, who led the finance committee review, urged approval of first reading and highlighted that the budget anticipates building general‑fund reserves and includes a 2.71% cost‑of‑living adjustment for every employee on the payroll. He noted the budget excludes some large, previously discussed capital items (for example a pending fire truck purchase) pending bond proceeds or other funds.

Council members raised questions about community‑relief disbursement processes, insurance‑premium increases and the mechanics of retirement and health‑insurance contribution changes; a staff speaker explained the 1% increase in health‑insurance contribution that will be directed to the health insurance fund. One council member (Kirkpatrick) said they had not had time to review the budget and cast the lone no vote for first reading; others supported advancing the measure to second reading.

The council voted 8–1 in favor of first reading; the budget will return for second reading and final adoption at a later meeting. A full copy of the budget and background materials is available for public inspection at city hall during normal business hours.