The City of Mesa has launched its annual budget process and is inviting residents to learn more and provide feedback on the proposed Fiscal Year 2025/26 budget. The budget process kicked off today with a presentation to the City Council by Management & Budget Director Brian A. Ritschel and Operations Budget Coordinator Kristi Griffin. Over the next several weeks, individual City departments will present their budget proposals to the City Council, with presentations scheduled through April 24. Additionally, to maintain its commitment to citizen engagement and transparency, the City will host two community information sessions in May.
"The City of Mesa has done an excellent job managing its finances and building reserves over the past several years, and that approach is now paying off as we navigate more challenging economic conditions," said Mesa City Manager Chris Brady. "We're now at a point where we need to tighten our belt and plan for the future. By taking measured steps today, we can ensure Mesa remains financially strong for years to come."
As part of the budget development process, all City departments were asked to reduce their ongoing base budgets by at least 2%. These reductions are necessary to help balance the budget following the state's elimination of the residential rental tax and to address other financial pressures, including public safety personnel costs, fleet maintenance and building maintenance requirements.
"Mesa continues to be in a strong financial position thanks to careful planning and sound fiscal management," said Mesa Mayor Mark Freeman. "I look forward to thoroughly reviewing the proposed budget with my colleagues on the Council and invite all Mesa residents to learn about our budget and participate in this important process. Your input on City priorities and services is invaluable as we make decisions that will affect our community."
The City of Mesa will host two community information sessions on the proposed budget:
Wednesday, May 7, 2025: 6 p.m. Red Mountain Center, 7550 E. Adobe St.
Wednesday, May 14, 2025: 6 p.m. The Post, 26 N. Macdonald.
Residents can also review budget documents and provide feedback online at mesaaz.gov/budget.
Following public input and City Council review, the tentative budget is scheduled for adoption on May 19, with final budget adoption planned for June 2. The new budget would go into effect on July 1, 2025.