Regular City Council Meeting 6/2/2026 part2

The Lemon Grove City Council’s June 2, 2026 regular meeting included review and adoption of the FY 2026–27 operating and capital budget. On a 5–0 vote, the council approved the budget with an additional $200,000 for recreation center repairs and an additional $200,000 for Berry Street Park improvements, on top of the $50,000 previously approved for the park. Members discussed deferred maintenance and safety work at the recreation center, park sidewalks and frontage work, day-camp services, staffing needs, and vehicle purchases. Staff was asked to assess electric or hybrid options for vehicles before purchases proceed. The council also discussed shifting unspent ARPA funds to meet a December spending deadline and using ARPA interest earnings for homeless diversion; staff said it would return with a contract for that program. The appropriations limit, roadway lighting district budget, and sanitation district budget were also approved. The salary plan/classification item was addressed with the cost-of-living increase deferred for further discussion and analysis; staffing-position questions were also left for follow-up.

The sanitation district received its annual sewer-rate analysis. Staff recommended a 3% increase, citing operating and capital needs and future wastewater costs; council members expressed support for either 2% or 3%, but the transcript does not show a final rate decision. Staff will prepare the next steps for a public hearing and anticipated action in July. No specific vendor awards or contract selections were identified.