Chandler City Council is gearing up for an important public hearing, scheduled for June 12, to discuss the final adoption of the fiscal year 2025-2026 Budget and the 2026-2035 Capital Improvement Program. According to a statement obtained by the City of Chandler, the hearing will take place at 6:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers on 88 E. Chicago St., where community members will have the opportunity to voice their opinions.
At the center of the proposal is a $783.2 million operational budget and a $845.7 million capital improvements budget, punctuated by some dedicated to reducing the property tax rate for the 10th consecutive year. It's noteworthy that Chandler boasts the lowest general sales tax rate in Arizona at 1.5% and claims the lowest overall cost of government services among large Valley cities, evaluated on utility rates and taxes paid. A striking fact to remember with the budget is that it is structurally balanced, with ongoing revenues covering ongoing expenses, while also adjusting for continued inflation.
Further details provided by the City of Chandler's announcement note that the city maintains a superior financial reputation, boasting the highest bond rating of AAA from all three rating agencies. This assessment is a testament to Chandler's financial health and its ability to meet obligations. The capital improvement highlights also include funding for emergency response vehicles, adjustments to water and wastewater facilities, and significant investments in Chandler's park system and street improvements.
The previous announcement made by the City Council on May 22 confirmed their tentative adoption of the budget and the capital program. This decision set in motion the events leading up to the June 12 meeting. With the inclusion of plans for the enhancement of street repaving and a strategic one-time payment to the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System aimed at keeping it fully funded, Chandler's approach to infrastructure development and financial stewardship could demonstrate a forward-looking fiscal strategy that equally values service delivery and fiscal responsibility.
