Columbia city leaders are considering millions of dollars in spending cuts as they work to balance the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget.
The city’s general fund currently faces a $7.4 million deficit, and the proposal does not include potential revenue from the public safety sales tax on the August ballot.
Possible cuts include delaying police drone replacements, reducing utility assistance funding, eliminating family planning services and freezing some vacant positions.
City officials say residents will have opportunities to weigh in during public budget hearings before the council votes in September.
Aug. 3rd: Public presentation of the 2027 Budget
Aug. 17th: Budget public hearing #1
Sept. 8th: Budget public hearing #2
The city’s fiscal year 2027 budget is set to be voted on at the Sept. 21 city council meeting.