Everett presents options to close 2026 budget gap

EVERETT — On Wednesday, Everett city staff shared preliminary balancing measures it could take while developing the 2026 budget to close another looming $7.9 million funding gap.

Some money-saving measures would continue from the previous year’s budget cycle. The city plans to suspend contributions to its LEOFF fire and police pension funds again — funds set aside for law enforcement officers and firefighters hired before Oct. 1, 1977. The city also suspended contributions to those pension funds last year.

Everett could also further reduce about $1 million of general fund spending on street overlays projects for a second year running. Last year, Everett already cut about a quarter of its general fund spending on street repair.

The city also plans to cut about $300,000 spending on human needs grants. Everett could also pause planned growth to department’s maintenance and operation funds, saving just over $200,000.

https://www.heraldnet.com/news/everett-presents-options-to-close-2026-budget-gap/