Pawtucket council adopts 2026–27 operating and capital budgets and approves pay-schedule changes

The Pawtucket City Council voted to adopt the amended 2026–27 annual operating budget, the 2026–27 capital budget, and the capital improvement program for 2027–2031 during its May meeting. Roll-call vote announcements recorded unanimous support from members present.

On the operating side, council discussion earlier in the meeting cited components of the levy change including a 2.96% levy element, increases in medical and dental insurance costs and salary-frame adjustments; one councilor summarized those elements as adding to a combined figure discussed during deliberations. Council members said the amended budget also included targeted allocations such as $500,000 in perpetuity for maintenance and an additional $500,000 discussed for related needs.

The council approved the operating budget (second passage) on a roll-call vote where each councilor announced "Yes," and the clerk recorded the motion as carried. The capital budget ordinance was approved on second passage by roll call, and the capital improvement program ordinance for 2027–2031 likewise passed on a recorded roll-call vote. The council also approved a local pay-schedule ordinance (referencing section 88-12 of the Pawtucket Code of Ordinances) to replace scheduled pay rates for the bargaining unit noted in the ordinance.

Votes at a glance

- Annual operating budget (2026–27, as amended): approved by roll call; recorded votes announced as unanimous in favor.
- Capital budget (2026–27): approved by roll call; unanimous in favor.
- Capital improvement program (2027–2031): approved by roll call; unanimous in favor.
- Pay-schedule update (code section 88-12): approved on second passage by roll call.

What happens next: With adoption of the ordinances, the city will proceed under the amended 2026–27 revenue and spending plan. Councilors also noted an upcoming audit that, they said, should clarify outstanding financial questions raised during public comment.