Glendale City Council Approves 2025-26 Budget

The budget boasts technological advancements and public safety investments

Residents can expect technological advancements aimed at enhancing public safety, water services and traffic management in the $1.46 billion budget for fiscal year 2025-26 that the Glendale City Council approved recently. The adopted budget is a 1% decrease over the prior year’s budget and includes an operating budget of $710 million and a capital improvement plan (CIP) budget of $478 million.

“The budget adoption demonstrates Glendale’s strong economic growth that is allowing us to invest in forward-thinking technology that best serves our community,” Glendale City Manager Kevin Phelps said. “We are able to make these investments that enhance the quality of life for our residents while holding the line on property taxes for the tenth consecutive year.”

Highlights of the technological enhancements include:

• Police Department: Officers will have access to real-time livestreams of emergency calls before they are dispatched. This technology improves response times and increases situational awareness for the first responders. Additionally, all police vehicles will be equipped with new speed detection technology to increase enforcement and improve road safety.
  
  
• Water Services Department: Upgraded water meters will be installed to allow automated readings and more accurate, timely water usage data.
  
  
• Transportation Department: Flashing yellow arrows will be installed at additional intersections throughout the city. The intersections with this type of signal phasing have proven to have a direct correlation to decreased left-turn crashes.

• Fire Department: Ongoing investment in modernizing fire facilities and enhancing the fleet to improve response times within the community.

"I'm proud of the collaboration between our City Council and budget team in delivering a responsible, balanced budget for 2025–2026," said Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers. "For the tenth year in a row, there's no increase to the property tax rate, while we continue to prioritize public safety, infrastructure, and economic growth."

Residents will also enjoy expanded and enhanced recreational opportunities in Glendale with the approved budget. A new mini, soccer pitch will be constructed, and two basketball courts will be added at Bonsall Park North, bringing the total to four basketball courts at the park. The pickleball and volleyball courts at the park will be resurfaced to provide smoother, easier areas to play. Plus, more LED lights will be installed to facilitate community teams playing sports at night.

To learn more about Glendale’s budget, visit www.glendaleaz.com/your_government/city_finances/financial_reports.