Public hearing and final vote scheduled for 4 p.m. at City-County Building
The Salina City Commission will convene at 4 p.m. today at the City-County Building to tackle one of their most significant annual responsibilities: adopting the city's 2026 budget. The meeting's centerpiece will be a public hearing on the proposed budget, followed by crucial votes that will shape Salina's financial direction for the coming year.
Budget Takes Center Stage
Commission members will conduct a public hearing to allow residents to voice their opinions on the proposed 2026 budget before voting on two key financial measures. The first is Ordinance No. 25-11253, which formally adopts and appropriates the annual budget. The second is Resolution No. 25-8302, establishing the 2026 Comprehensive Fee Schedule that will determine various city service costs for residents.
The public hearing represents the final opportunity for Salina citizens to weigh in on spending priorities and revenue plans before the budget becomes official. Once adopted, the budget will guide city operations, capital projects, and service delivery throughout 2026.
Infrastructure Investments on Agenda
Beyond the budget, commissioners will consider several infrastructure-related items that demonstrate ongoing investment in the community. The consent agenda includes awarding a $239,213 contract to Ponton Construction for Phase 4a of concrete improvements at various city parks, continuing the city's efforts to maintain and enhance recreational facilities.
Commissioners will also authorize engineering design services with Lochner for road improvements on East Crawford and a pedestrian bridge on the Brookwood Trail, signaling continued attention to both vehicular and pedestrian infrastructure needs.
Administrative Matters
The administration portion of the meeting includes consideration of special assessments to address nuisance abatement costs through Ordinance No. 25-11255. Property owners affected by these assessments will see costs for cleaning up problem properties reflected in their tax bills.
The commission will also review an agreement with DIEHL Enterprises for debris removal from the Smoky Hill River in Bill Burke Park, addressing environmental maintenance needs in one of the city's popular recreational areas.
Public Participation Opportunities
Citizens can attend the meeting in person at Room 107 of the City-County Building or participate via Zoom. The meeting will also be livestreamed on the City of Salina's YouTube channel. Those wishing to speak during public comment periods must be recognized by the mayor and are typically limited to three minutes.
The meeting begins at 4 p.m. with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed immediately by the budget-focused public hearing. Citizens interested in the city's financial future are encouraged to participate in this important democratic process.
