City Council Special Meeting - March 23, 2026

The City Council of Foster City held a special meeting on March 23, 2026, primarily focused on ratifying a local emergency proclamation related to a recent ransomware cyberattack. The council discussed the city's cybersecurity budget, noting past cuts to critical IT security items such as security audits and penetration testing despite increasing cyber threats. The meeting also included a detailed review of the city's biennial budget proposal for fiscal years 2026-27 and 2027-28, with emphasis on capital improvement projects (CIP), internal service funds, and operating budgets. Key procurement topics included funding and planning for 57 CIP projects over five years, vehicle and equipment replacement with a shift toward electric vehicles, IT infrastructure upgrades including a new financial system and website migration, and building maintenance projects. The council discussed funding strategies, including interfund loans and transfers from the general fund, and the need for ongoing budget reevaluation. Questions were raised about project prioritization, staffing capacity, and potential external funding sources. The meeting concluded with a review of proposed changes to master fee schedules and a closed session on threats to public services.