City of Newport Beach Council Meeting May 26, 2026

The City of Newport Beach held a joint City Council and Finance Committee meeting on May 26, 2026, primarily to review and discuss the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 operating budget and the capital improvement program (CIP) for 2026-2032. The operating budget totals approximately $475.5 million, with a 3% increase over the prior year, and includes a $40 million allocation toward paying down the city's unfunded pension liability. The general fund budget is about $348 million, with planned staffing increases including additional firefighter paramedics, police officers, and harbor safety officers. The CIP budget proposes $95 million in funding, including carryover appropriations, for various infrastructure projects such as road rehabilitation, harbor dock replacements, and water system improvements. The council also discussed policy matters including the adoption of a tobacco retailer business ordinance establishing permit requirements and operational standards, and approved a motion to consider purchasing audio live stream and recording devices for all city meetings. Several votes were taken, including unanimous approval of the tobacco retailer ordinance with enhanced enforcement provisions, and a straw vote approving the audio recording proposal. Public comments addressed budget transparency, environmental concerns, and community services. The meeting concluded with a closed session on litigation matters.