SCRTD board approves FY2026 amendment, reviews third‑quarter finances and weighs FY2027 wage options

Finance Officer Adam Shea asked the board to approve an amendment adding $573,835.61 to the FY2026 budget, largely to cover salary increases and benefits; Shea said that after the change the district would have a projected balance of $136,100.54.

"This first section has to do with an amendment... specifically, I am requesting an additional $573,835.61," Shea told the board while outlining major categories including salary and benefits.

The nut graph: Board members heard a broader financial briefing showing operating expenditures of $2,934,550.82 (about 74.6% of budget) and operating revenue collected year‑to‑date of $2,436,611.59 (about 59.7%). Staff said capital grant drawdowns and a likely near‑term FTA grant approval could free up substantial funds.

During the financial report staff noted capital receipts and outstanding grants, and David Armijo said the district was expecting additional drawdowns from DFA and other awards that could improve cash position. Adam Shea reported a capital budget balance and said some capital items will carry into 2027.

The board then discussed the preliminary FY2027 personnel budget. Staff presented two wage scenarios — a 3.5% and a 3% increase — and proposed hiring a budget analyst. Supporters argued the higher increase would help retention; staff said bus‑operator turnover was concentrated but overall retention was relatively good.

Mayor Pro Tem Munoz and other members expressed support for higher wages to aid retention, and Chair Manuel Sanchez said he would likely back the 3.5% option given the small incremental cost relative to employee needs. The board approved the FY2026 amendment and accepted the financial report; staff will return with final FY2027 budget figures when DOT and grant award numbers are available.