Budget Study Session Recap - Special Meeting of the Whittier City Council

The City of Whittier held a special budget study session on May 5, 2026, to review the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 budget and discuss related financial matters. The meeting included public comments addressing community priorities such as investment in arts and cultural spaces, affordable housing, urban forestry, and concerns about police department expenditures including funding for drones and equipment. City staff presented detailed budget information, highlighting a $155 million total budget with a $14.3 million general fund, and discussed the use of reserves, pension obligations, and funding sources including Measure W and Caltrans funds for Whittier Boulevard improvements. The council discussed the need for a master plan for Whittier Boulevard and emphasized the importance of balancing the budget while addressing community needs. No formal votes on budget amendments were recorded during this session, but the council agreed to continue budget discussions in future meetings and to develop a wish list of projects. The meeting concluded with no reportable action taken in closed session.