Special Called Budget July 28, 2026

The City of Biloxi held a Special Called Budget meeting on July 28, 2026, focusing extensively on the draft budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Key procurement and budget discussions included reductions in full-time staff and overtime across parks and recreation divisions, elimination of contractual grass cutting services to save approximately $90,000, and potential cuts to programs such as summer playground and athletic supplies. The meeting also addressed operational challenges and budget shortfalls related to the visitor center, aquatic facilities, and lifeguard staffing shortages, with discussions on possible fee increases for recreational programs and facility rentals to offset costs. Council members debated the balance between cost-cutting and maintaining revenue-generating activities like ball tournaments and concessions. Additionally, the meeting covered capital expenditures, noting that only three police vehicles were planned for purchase citywide, and discussed revenue from tree mitigation fees and land clearance. Future budget meetings were scheduled to review public works, engineering, water, and sewer departments in detail.