April 27, 2026 Special City Council Meeting

The City of Shafter held a Special City Council Meeting on April 27, 2026, primarily focused on reviewing the fiscal year 2026-2027 operating budget and departmental updates. Key procurement-related discussions included capital improvement projects such as the police substation construction, sidewalk and pedestrian improvements on Tulare Avenue, Kershaw Park lighting upgrades, and a $92 million five-year capital improvement plan covering water, wastewater, public facilities, and streets. The council reviewed budget constraints due to reduced sales tax revenues but noted strong property tax growth helping to balance the budget. Equipment replacement requests were presented, including a wood chipper, utility trailer, work trucks, and a feasibility study for Veterans Hall improvements, with consensus to initially rent a vehicle for economic development use rather than immediate purchase. The meeting also covered procurement of new police equipment like body-worn cameras, patrol vehicles, and expansion of license plate reader cameras. The council did not take final votes on budget approvals but discussed priorities and next steps for procurement and capital projects.