Council Passes 2025-2027 City Budget

Irvine City Council approved a balanced budget for 2025-2027, focusing on public safety and community enhancements. Mayor Larry Agran highlighted the city's preparedness for an expected economic downturn without raising taxes. The new budget allocates increased funding for police, parks, libraries, and schools, with over $10 million designated annually for K-12 education. Eleven full-time positions will be added, primarily in the Public Safety Department, boosting the employee count by 1% to 1,103. Significant capital improvements include the Great Park library, Heritage Park enhancements, and expanded transit services.

The City will also invest in community programs, earmarking funds for school nurses and resource officers. Revenue sources are primarily property and sales taxes, projected to increase, while hotel taxes remain flat. Agran emphasized careful planning and budgeting as key to maintaining the city's quality of life amid economic challenges.