City Council Budget Workshop - May 19th 2026

The City of Prescott City Council held its third budget workshop on May 19, 2026, focusing primarily on the Public Works Department's budget and capital improvement projects. Key procurement-related discussions included funding sources for street and transportation operations, such as the 1% sales tax generating approximately $23.5 million for FY 27, and contributions to regional transportation planning through Y Plan (SIMPO) with a projected local match of up to $350,000. The council reviewed planned capital projects including sidewalk repair and replacement, street preservation, drainage improvements, and intersection upgrades, with some projects partially funded by grants. The council also discussed the purchase of a long-line striping truck and bringing striping operations in-house to improve efficiency. Significant attention was given to the solid waste enterprise fund, which faces rising hauling and tipping fees and deferred vehicle purchases leading to a projected deficit of about $1 million in FY 27. Staff proposed an interim rate increase scenario to address the shortfall and planned a comprehensive rate and fee study to be completed mid-FY 27. The council reviewed the Approved Expenditure List (AEL) to streamline procurement approvals for routine and capital items, with thresholds for council review discussed. Public comments addressed local street conditions and traffic signal timing. No formal votes were recorded during the workshop, but several action items related to budgeting, procurement planning, and rate adjustments were identified for future council consideration.