2026-2027 Budget Meeting #3 / March 7, 2026

The City of Kansas City held its third public budget meeting on March 7, 2026, to discuss the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget totaling $2.5 billion. The meeting included a detailed presentation of the budget, highlighting key revenue sources such as earnings tax, sales tax, and property tax, and major expenditures including public safety, infrastructure, and capital projects. Significant procurement-related items discussed included $5 million allocated for capital improvements at the T-Mobile Center, $12.5 million in general obligation bonds for housing investments, and $363 million for the police department including funding for 50 new officers. The budget also plans $30.9 million for street resurfacing and $5.7 million for snow removal. Public testimony focused heavily on concerns about proposed cuts to public transportation, domestic violence services, arts funding, and city workforce wages. Many speakers urged the council to fully fund transit services and social programs, emphasizing the impact of cuts on vulnerable populations. City officials acknowledged the difficult budget balancing act amid a $42.8 million shortfall and indicated that amendments to the budget would be considered before final adoption. The meeting underscored the council's commitment to listening to public input and making adjustments accordingly.