Mayor Evans Releases Budget Proposal that Drives Growth to Overcome Historic Fiscal Challenges

The City of Rochester held a budget proposal meeting on May 8, 2026, where Mayor Evans and Budget Director Suzanne Warren presented the fiscal year 2027 budget. The proposal addresses significant fiscal challenges including rising pension, healthcare, and utility costs, with a total amended budget of $684.7 million. To sustain essential services and strategic growth initiatives, the budget includes a 7.5 million dollar increase in the property tax levy, resulting in a net monthly increase of about $30 for the typical homeowner. The budget also proposes a 5% increase in water user fees and adjustments to parking fines and service charges to offset operational costs. Key investments highlighted include funding for public safety with two police academy classes, gun violence reduction strategies, outreach for unhoused populations, and expanded mental health crisis response teams. The capital budget supports physical infrastructure improvements and affordable housing initiatives exceeding $2 billion. The city is relying on anticipated state aid of approximately $20 million to avoid further cuts, with public hearings scheduled before the City Council's final vote on June 16, 2026.