Watch the Latest City Council Budget/CIP Work Session (5-14-26)

The Lake Havasu City Council held a Budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) work session on May 14, 2026, focusing on the fiscal year 2026-27 budget and the five-year CIP. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of eight new staff positions, notably four firefighter EMTs and police officer technicians, and the ongoing construction of Fire Station 7 with an $8.3 million budget. The council reviewed funding allocations for infrastructure projects such as roads, water mains, and parks, highlighting a $20 million investment in roads over recent years and concerns about underfunding for water main replacements. The splash pad project was a significant topic, with debate over whether to allocate general fund dollars to it or rely solely on grants; the council discussed the need for clearer communication and detailed cost estimates before final approval. Other procurement considerations included potential police storage facilities, airport hangar development contingent on private partnerships, and maintenance of public amenities. The council emphasized fiscal conservatism, adherence to state expenditure limits, and the need for strategic prioritization of projects given limited revenues and declining fund balances. Public comments underscored community desires for improved youth recreational facilities alongside essential infrastructure maintenance. The session concluded with plans for further refinement of the budget and CIP for tentative adoption in June.