July 21, 2026, Finance Committee Meeting

The City of Port Orchard Finance Committee met on July 21, 2026, to review revenue forecasts and capital funding. Members discussed sales-tax collections, which remained positive but were being monitored against the 2026 budget target of $1.6 million. Staff presented a funding plan for the approximately $15.3 million Bethel Phase 1 project at the Salmonberry and Blueberry intersections, including a planned application for a $3 million Transportation Improvement Board grant. Other anticipated sources include the city’s 0.1% TBD sales tax, transportation impact fees, developer contributions, and a smaller water/sewer contribution. Staff reported that seven right-of-way offers appeared accepted, with roughly 33–34 remaining, and construction targeted to begin in spring 2028. Committee members expressed support for the mayor signing a funding commitment letter based on the current plan; this was informal support, not a formal vote. The plan may need revision if the grant is not awarded or construction costs exceed estimates, potentially including debt financing.

The committee also discussed redirecting $50,000 budgeted for Vanzy Park playground work, since replacement accessible swing equipment could not be sourced, toward park clearing, tree work, and improvements to overgrown shelters; no final spending decision was clear in the transcript. Separately, the mayor proposed pursuing Heritage Bank’s three downtown parcels, appraised together at about $1.88 million, with an initial cash offer around $1.4 million. Members expressed support for developing an offer, with any purchase subject to full City Council approval. Staff said cash and fund balance could cover the purchase, while noting potential coordination with the Public Facilities District and environmental due diligence, including a required no-further-action letter for the gravel lot.