For Immediate Release: March 26, 2026 

Today, the City Council adopted Kansas City’s Fiscal Year 2026–27 budget, a $2.6 billion spending plan for the fiscal year beginning May 1.  The budget reflects priorities identified by residents and makes key investments in public safety, infrastructure, housing, and neighborhoods – while preserving the City’s emergency reserve funds.  

"Our budget respects the strong fiscal foundation the taxpayers have helped Kansas City build, maintaining a rainy-day fund of over $200 million, increasing road resurfacing, hiring more public safety and city workers, and investing in all Kansas City neighborhoods," said Mayor Quinton Lucas. "In a city that can walk and chew gum, we are proud to welcome the world while delivering strong basic services for Kansas City's families." 

The Fiscal Year 2027 allocates $744.0 million for public safety including:  

• $26.3 million to establish the Department of Community Safety pursuant to Ordinance No. 260076  

• $6.0 million to support funding of violence prevention initiatives  

• $4.2 million to fund additional staff in the Kansas City Police Department including 50 new officers, 10 call takers and 10 dispatchers  

“This budget reflects a collaborative effort across the City and provides a clear path for Kansas City to keep moving forward with discipline, accountability, and a focus on service,” said City Manager Mario Vasquez. “Thank you to the Council for its thoughtful deliberation and input in crafting this budget.”  

The FY 2026–27 budget represents a balanced, forward-looking approach that pairs fiscal restraint with continued investment in the services residents rely on most. Additional key investments in housing, infrastructure, and neighborhoods include:  

• $83.8 million for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, which includes an additional $6.0 million offered via an amendment 

• $42.1 million to maintain existing trash and recycling operations 

• $39.4 million for city-wide street resurfacing, including an additional $8.5 million offered via an amendment 

• $1.8 million to continue IRIS services in the City’s Northland 

• $1.5 million for the demolition of dangerous buildings  

• $1.0 million for initiatives to support the City’s homeless population added via an amendment  

• $750,000 funding to rehabilitate properties added via an amendment 

• $325,000 to support ArtsKC; an increase of $225,000 offered through amendments 

• $250,000 for urban agriculture and microgrants for new and established growers offered via an amendment  

"Today, we adopted a budget that advances the goals of our citywide business plan, reflects the priorities of our residents, and maintains a strong commitment to fiscal discipline," said Councilmember Andrea Bough, Chair of the City Finance Committee. "I want to thank our Finance and Budget staff for their months of diligent work. This budget positions Kansas City well for the future, and I look forward to the upcoming fiscal year’s events.” 

The adopted budget emphasizes outcomes for residents, including maintaining core services, strengthening public safety operations, and supporting long-term financial stability. 

Today’s budget adoption follows a months-long process that began last fall when the City adopted its five-year financial forecast which estimated a $100 million budget shortfall; followed by a review of the City’s expenses, budget presentations from departments, and three public budget hearings for resident feedback regarding their priorities.  The adopted budget reduces the deficit to about $64.1 million, through disciplined financial management and careful budgeting. 

For more information about the FY 2026–27 budget, visit KCMO.gov/budget. 

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Media with questions may contact Jordan Berger, Public Information Officer of Finance, at Jordan.Berger@kcmo.org.