La Verne takes first reading of FY2026–27 budget; residential water up 5% and sewer up 2%

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen took first reading of Ordinance 2026‑O‑8 adopting the annual budget and tax rate for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026. City staff said the property tax rate will remain unchanged from the prior year.

Finance staff summarized major capital and program items: several capital purchases, one new position each for the library and fire department, and $1.4 million allocated for street paving across the city under the state street program. Staff also said the budget incorporates rate changes for utilities pursuant to a rate study completed two years ago: residential water rates will increase by 5% and sewer rates by 2%.

Why it matters: the budget sets city priorities and includes utility rate changes that will affect household bills. Staff characterized the budget as the product of multiple workshops and work sessions. The board approved the ordinance on first reading, which advances it to a subsequent hearing and final adoption process.

Clarifications: finance staff referenced packet numbers reporting ending bank balances for the month (the packet line reads "$111,000,000"); staff invited questions and offered to follow up with detailed line‑item information by contacting Bruce or Danielle in finance.