Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins introduced a $352.7 million operating budget for fiscal 2026–27 to the Cranston City Council, saying the plan restores realistic financial assumptions, funds pensions and OPEB, adds $1.5 million for schools and proposes a residential tax rate of $14.99 per $1,000. He said the administration is pursuing state approval to exceed the 4% levy cap while protecting core services and avoiding layoffs.