Budget boosts capital spending, funds Mission Hill Park operations and adds staff positions

Staff told the council that projected capital expenditures are expected to increase significantly in FY27 as 2023 bond projects move into construction and operations. Jared Warner said much of the $29.2 million year-over-year increase in expenditures is driven by capital spending tied to the bond program.

Warner highlighted several position additions to help manage the growing capital and federal-funds workload: a capital project manager to oversee the expanding project list, a buyer position to handle federal funds reporting and procurement, an administrative assistant for human resources, a communications specialist and a GIS analyst dedicated to public-safety analytics. He said the Mission Hill Park is slated to open in FY27 and the budget includes facility operating costs for the new park. The council approved the budget ordinance first reading, which incorporates these staffing and capital allocations; final adoption is set for Sept. 14.