Grass Valley Council adopts FY 2026–27 operating budget

The Grass Valley City Council voted unanimously to adopt the city’s fiscal year 2026–27 operating budget, passing Resolution 2026‑30 by roll call.

Finance Director Jennifer Sachinsky presented a condensed overview of the final budget at a public hearing, saying that the general fund plan assumes using about $17,000 of reserves to balance operations and that several capital projects (Measure E and sewer/water capital) drive larger fund assumptions. Sachinsky said the projections assume positions remain filled and capital projects proceed as planned; if projects do not proceed, related expenditures will be rolled back.

After the hearing, a motion to adopt the budget was moved and seconded. The roll call recorded "yes" votes from Council Member Arbuckle, Council Member Bono, Council Member Ivy, Vice Mayor Caribelli and Mayor Hajj. The budget was adopted and will take effect July 1, 2026.

The presentation noted two limited changes from the prior draft: updated assessment district revenues (COLA adjustments) and proposed expenditures in landscaping, lighting, and benefit assessment districts totaling about $175,000 for beautification and improvements. The finance director said no other material operating changes were proposed to the general fund.

Next steps: the budget will be implemented beginning July 1, 2026; staff said any midyear changes would return to council for formal action.