Today, Mayor Aftab Pureval and City Manager Sheryl Long announced the release of the Recommended Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Update at a press conference at City Hall.

Budget documents are available on the City’s website:

0. Budget Documents - Office of Budget and Evaluation (cincinnati-oh.gov)

“This year was a challenge. We had a nearly $30 million General Fund operating budget deficit to address. But we were prepared for this moment. My Administration’s transition to Performance-Based Budgeting, which has taken place over the last 3.5 years, marks a complete culture change in the way the City manages money,” said City Manager Sheryl Long. “On the operating side of the budget, there are three major categories of reductions: vacancy savings, the realignment of the Fire Department recruit class, and miscellaneous non-personnel savings. In the capital budget, Cincy on Track will total $58 million this fiscal year, an increase of $2 million over last year’s disbursement. Street rehabilitation continues to be the most important deliverable for Cincy on Track, and as a result of operational efficiencies, we will complete 20% more lane miles than last year without spending more money.”

“Our budget, at its core, is about ensuring the delivery of the core basic services our residents expect and rely on. Ensuring we remain financially healthy and able to deliver. And making the decisions now that will set us up for growth and success in the future. In the face of rising expenses and projected deficits, our Administration has done exactly that while once again balancing the budget,” said Mayor Aftab Pureval.

The City achieved a structurally balanced budget by making about $20.2 million in reductions to the Operating Budget balanced by revenues of approximately $17.2 million. Much of the savings ($8.5 million) is a result of leaving currently vacant positions unfilled. Additionally, the City is realigning the Cincinnati Fire Department recruit class to begin in Fall 2027. This saves approximately $3.3 million without impacting service delivery as the department is above budgeted complement. This will ultimately result in less overtime in CFD, which has been a persistent challenge.

In the Capital Budget, the City continues to focus on deploying dollars as quickly as possible. The City is prioritizing the replacement of two fire stations and large-scale capital projects, including the renovation of Dunham Recreation Center. Additionally, the City has increased its borrowing capacity, unlocking an additional $25 million for fleet and facilities investments, as well as a new $13 million neighborhood development fund.

The budget deliberation process will begin Tuesday, May 26 at the Budget, Finance and Governance Committee. Council will then vote to approve the final budget. The City’s fiscal year commences on July 1.