Long Beach Budget and Finance Committee September 1, 2026

The Long Beach Budget and Finance Committee met September 1, 2026, to review the proposed 2027 budget ahead of its planned first reading at the September Town Council meeting. Staff described the overall general-fund budget as approximately balanced, with a proposed 3% salary increase and health-insurance budgeting based on an estimated 15% increase. No votes or contract awards are identified in the transcript. The committee discussed separating building-department expenses into a new building fund under an upcoming requirement, potentially using a temporary loan from the general fund, and evaluating building-permit fees within statutory limits. Salt procurement costs may rise after LaPorte County was excluded from statewide contract negotiations; staff is exploring group purchasing with other communities and alternatives.

Capital and purchasing discussions included a planned $90,000 water-system electrical-panel upgrade in 2027, a Lakeshore Drive paving project that could use a CCMG grant and funds from multiple accounts, and a park tennis-court rebuild currently listed at $250,000, with phase one expected to cost more and financing options under review. The fire department expects a vendor estimate and bank financing proposals for the September Council meeting. The community center has capital spending authority of up to $100,000, including heat pumps estimated at about $20,000 each. Other items included a possible $150,000 CCD paving allocation, body-camera funding, and a marine-boat purchase awaiting progress on FEMA-related funding holds. These were budget and planning discussions; the transcript does not record approvals.