Members of the Fresno City Council conduct a vote on Thursday, March 13, 2025. They unanimously approved a new budget this week. Video screengrab

The Fresno City Council unanimously approved the City of Fresno’s fiscal year 2027 budget on Tuesday, adopting a $2.56 billion spending plan that city leaders say prioritizes public safety, infrastructure improvements, neighborhood investment and economic development.

The budget received a 7-0 vote following public comment and discussion by council members.

According to city officials, the FY2027 budget includes approximately $546.41 million in general fund spending, $1.12 billion in enterprise and internal service funds and $891.97 million from special revenue sources and grants.

Mayor Jerry Dyer said the budget was developed during a challenging fiscal year while maintaining city services and preserving employee positions.

“I am pleased to receive another 7-0 council vote in support of the FY27 budget,” Dyer said. “This budget prioritizes public safety, paving neighborhood streets, and beautifying the Tower District and downtown area.”

Dyer added that the city approved a balanced budget without layoffs or reductions to employee pay and benefits.

Public safety, infrastructure investments

A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to public safety and infrastructure projects throughout Fresno. 

Funding includes two firefighter drill schools, construction of a new Fire Training Center and the addition of another Homeless Assistance Response Team (HART) to address issues related to the unhoused population.

The city also plans to invest $75 million in street and sidewalk construction projects and nearly $700,000 for freeway trash removal efforts.

According to the city, the budget allocates approximately $1 billion toward 470 major capital projects planned across Fresno.

Neighborhood, community improvements

The spending plan includes several investments aimed at neighborhood enhancement and community services.

Among the projects are $1 million for sidewalk beautification efforts in the Tower District and downtown Fresno, expansion of the Utility Box Art program into those areas, and $500,000 to acquire land and design a new park near Addams Elementary School.

The budget also includes funding to plant 1,000 new trees during FY2027 and $3.3 million for tree trimming operations, which city officials said will support a 10-year maintenance cycle.

Additional funding includes $1.8 million for the city’s Eviction Protection Program and $1.9 million to support residential infill housing development.

Support for community programs

The adopted budget provides funding for several community-based initiatives, including $2 million in grants to First Five California to support an early learning initiative championed by Council Vice President Tyler Maxwell.

Advanced Peace, a violence intervention program, will remain fully funded during FY2027, with city officials noting funding will also remain available into FY2028.

The budget also includes $825,000 for nonprofit-led spay and neuter programs, including a $300,000 matching contribution from Dogwood Animal Rescue.

Council President Nelson Esparza said the budget reflects the city’s commitment to investing in neighborhoods while maintaining fiscal stability.

“Fresno residents deserve a budget that invests in their neighborhoods, protects essential services, and prepares our city for the future,” Esparza said in a statement. “This budget builds on that momentum through historic investments that strengthen our communities, support long-term economic vitality, and position our city for continued success.”

The adopted FY2027 budget and Budget Reconciliation Summary are available on the City of Fresno’s website. 

City officials will begin implementing the spending plan at the start of the new fiscal year.