Suisun City Council Reviews FY 2025–26 Budget Proposal

Published on May 20, 2025

Suisun City, Calif. – On May 13, 2025, the Suisun City Council convened a public Budget Study Session to review the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2025–26 city budget and discuss strategic priorities for delivering essential services while maintaining long-term financial sustainability.

City staff presented a detailed overview of projected revenues, highlighting an estimated $6.89 million in general fund revenue and emphasizing the crucial role of Measure S funding. A major component of the budget is funding from Measure S, a voter-approved 1.75% transactions and use tax. Measure S will contribute $6.89 million, with 97% of its revenue directed to public safety—57% to Police, 40% to Fire, and the remainder to dispatch and IT needs. The Measure S Oversight Committee reviewed and accepted the proposed allocations during a joint meeting on April 29.

To ensure fiscal responsibility, the Council evaluated potential reductions totaling over $450,000. Proposed cuts include:

$190,000 in City Manager’s Office contracts

$40,000 in non-mandatory staff training

$50,000 for the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Program

$40,000 in special events funding

$35,000 for a proposed AI Art App

Additional modest cuts to code enforcement vehicle purchases, a code survey, and finance tech support

Despite these adjustments, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to core services and key staffing positions. The proposed budget retains:

$157,000 for police officer positions

$121,000 for firefighters and $48,000 for battalion chief coverage

$108,000 for a permit technician

$50,000 for code abatement efforts

$180,000 for the police communications tower

While the City continues to prioritize public safety and essential services, staffing levels across most departments remain between 50% and 70% of what is needed to fully support a community of 30,000 residents. This structural budget limitation highlights the importance of long-term strategies such as infill development, economic growth, and modernizing the local tax base. City leaders stressed that expanding revenue sources and growing the resident and business community are vital to achieving sustainable operations and service delivery in future years.

Mayor Alma Hernandez praised the effort behind the session, stating, “This was one of the most comprehensive Budget Study Sessions in Suisun City, led by our entire leadership team, providing the council and community with critical insights into our financial challenges and future outlook. As we navigate tough decisions and possible cuts, we must prioritize funding for the services that are most essential to our residents and the wellbeing of our community.”

City leaders underscored their commitment to public engagement and transparency throughout the budgeting process. Residents who participated in the session emphasized the importance of preserving essential services, investing in infrastructure, and supporting overall community well-being.

Vice Mayor Jenalee Dawson added, “The roadmap to sustainability includes exploring alternative revenue streams, optimizing existing resources, and fostering community partnerships. We must think creatively and collaboratively to continue providing high-quality services without compromising our financial stability.”

Residents attending the meeting highlighted the need to preserve essential services, invest in infrastructure, and maintain transparency throughout the budgeting process.

The FY 2025–26 budget is scheduled for final adoption on June 24, 2025, with adjustments to be made based on Council direction and public input.

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