Page 28 - FY 2026-2027 Adopted Budget Book

All departments except those noted were able to keep their budgets either in line with inflation or below
inflationary levels. The City Secretary’s office will face a sharp increase in the cost of elections for ’26-’27 as
well as an added expense for agenda management software. Council approval of a new electric contract
reduces our electricity costs for the coming year. Other electric costs in the general fund were reduced shifting
the maintenance of street lights to the EDC-4B Street Improvement fund. Staff made changes to the existing
property and liability insurance coverage levels to better align with historic results resulting in a cost savings in
the proposed budget. As the Trinity River Authority increases our water and wastewater costs, an increase to
our water and sewer rates will be necessary to maintain service.

Budget Priorities

The FY 2026–2027 Budget advances the City's Strategic Plan by focusing available resources on priorities
that provide long-term value to the community.

Organizational Excellence
Invest in digital accessibility improvements to ensure City information and online services remain
accessible to all residents.
Modernize technology infrastructure and strengthen cybersecurity to improve resilience and protect City
operations.
Maintain structurally balanced budgets through conservative financial planning and adherence to adopted
financial policies.

Economic Development
Support continued redevelopment activity including the Sprouts-anchored Market at Gateway area and
ongoing commercial investment throughout the community.
Maintain funding for economic development initiatives and redevelopment incentives that encourage
reinvestment in aging commercial corridors.
Continue strategic tourism investments that attract visitors and support local businesses.

Transportation & Redevelopment
Continue design and planning for future street reconstruction and mobility improvements funded through
the Street Improvement (4B) Corporation.
Invest in rehabilitation and maintenance of existing public infrastructure to extend asset life and reduce
future replacement costs.
Support redevelopment through strategic infrastructure investments that improve aging commercial
corridors.

Quality of Life
Maintain high-quality Police, Fire, EMS, Library, Parks, Senior Center, and Animal Shelter services while
preserving current service levels.
Continue neighborhood revitalization efforts through proactive code enforcement and targeted nuisance
abatement.
Improve accessibility and citizen engagement through enhanced digital communications and website
accessibility improvements.
Invest in parks, trails, recreation, and community events that enhance Bedford's quality of life.

FY 2026-2027 Adopted Budget Book · September 15, 2026 24