Overview

• Mayor Todd Gloria's revised FY2026 budget maintains cuts to library hours, recreation center operations, park restrooms, and arts funding despite partial restorations to public safety allocations.
• The city's deficit has grown to $350 million, prompting reductions in the general fund for the first time in years and new revenue proposals, including higher fees for trash collection and parking.
• Community advocacy group 'Hands Off Our Parks' argues the cuts disproportionately impact low-income neighborhoods and urges the use of the Climate Equity Index to guide spending decisions.
• City Councilmember Sean Elo-Rivera and coalition members emphasize that libraries, parks, and youth programs are essential resources, not luxuries, for vulnerable communities.
• The revised budget sets the stage for City Council hearings, with a final budget adoption scheduled for June 10 following debates and public input.