# September 23, 2026 - Budget Committee Meeting

The City of Saint Paul's Budget Committee convened on September 23, 2026, to review the Department of Public Works' proposed 2027 budget and related operational issues. The meeting focused extensively on budget allocations across general and special funds, highlighting a 3.68% overall budget increase to just over $45 million. Key procurement-related discussions included funding for street and snow maintenance, with winter and summer operations budgeted at $4.9 million and $5.3 million respectively. The committee reviewed several proposed budget cuts, such as a $300,000 reduction in the alley improvement pilot program and a $500,000 cut to sidewalk support, alongside plans to explore sustainable funding models like sidewalk improvement districts. The department also discussed grant awards totaling over $42 million, including a $15.1 million Safe Streets for All grant aimed at enhancing transportation safety. Additional procurement topics included the shift of GIS analyst positions to the Office of Technology and Communications, efforts to improve billing systems for parking permits and traffic operations, and the impact of rising disposal and sewer utility fees driven by external county costs. The committee addressed concerns about maintaining essential services amid budget constraints, the need for cost discipline, and the importance of preserving city jobs. Several action items were identified for follow-up, including detailed breakdowns of special fund changes, updates on the transportation safety action plan, and further analysis of fee increases and grant timing.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Public Safety
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 23, 2026

### Sources
- [September 23, 2026 - Budget Committee Meeting](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDRFtlBXako) - City of Saint Paul