2027-2028 Preliminary Budget Overview

During the October 5 Committee of the Whole, Renton City Council received the first of several presentations related to the 2027-2028 Biennial Budget with the initial budget overview.

The presentation opened with Mayor Pavone outlining Renton’s strong financial footing, noting the city’s AAA bond rating, low debt, and increasing sales tax revenues. The proposed citywide budget totals $782 million over the two‑year period, with $334 million allocated to the general fund. Mayor Pavone emphasized the budget reflects the results of a statistically valid community survey, where 800+ residents identified top priorities including public safety, maintenance of existing parks and outdoor spaces, and human and behavioral health services. These community-driven priorities served as a guide the budget’s four organizing themes: public safety, human services, economic development, and capital investment.

The presentation detailed significant investments proposed in each area. For public safety, staffing increases supported by the 2025 public safety sales tax are included, along with an expansion of the speed safety camera program.

Human services investments include strengthened preventative support for those on the brink of losing housing, an expansion of relationship‑based outreach to individuals facing behavioral health and addiction challenges, and preparation for the City’s future stabilization center.

The budget also makes major commitments to infrastructure with an allocation of $65 million in transportation, utilities, parks, trails, and facilities projects. The primary focus is on maintaining the city’s existing assets. Flood‑related improvements include upgrades to sewer and stormwater systems, adding a 6.3‑million‑gallon reservoir.

Economic development efforts continue to build on downtown revitalization successes, new employer growth, and the anticipated Seattle Children’s Hospital campus, expected to bring thousands of living-wage jobs to Renton.

Revenue projections total $775 million for the biennium, with taxes and utility service charges remaining the largest sources. Sales tax performance has exceeded expectations following several years of slow growth, and interest income has risen due to higher interest rates and more active investment management.

The city’s General Fund, projected at $322 million, draws 82% of its revenue from taxes and includes $9 million from the new criminal‑justice and public‑safety sales tax. The City’s 2027 preliminary property tax levy totals $27.1 million, reflecting the allowable 1% increase, and Renton maintains $16.2 million in banked capacity for potential future use.

Staff clarified that for a median Renton home valued at $710,000, the city receives about $624 a year, or roughly $52 a month, in property taxes. This represents only about 8% of the total monthly property tax bill, meaning the city receives just a small portion of the overall amount homeowners pay.

On the expenditure side, General Fund spending totals $333 million, with personnel costs representing 62% of the budget. Staffing proposals include adding 15 regular full‑time positions and seven limited‑term roles, mainly in parks maintenance, human services outreach, public defense, the City Attorney’s Office, legislative support, and the speed‑camera program.

The City also plans substantial capital investments totaling $65.1 million, funded through grants, taxes, bonds, and other sources. Projects under consideration include 200 Mill building improvements, Liberty Park’s major upgrades, Logan Festival Street development, and renovations of four park restrooms.

An increase to utility rates for water, sewer, stormwater, and solid waste are proposed due to inflation and increased cost. Both the airport and the golf course funds are projected to remain self‑sustaining, with the golf course using its accumulated fund balance to cover necessary capital investments.

During tonight's Committee of the Whole, Renton City Council will receive department presentations from Public Works, Executive Services, and City Attorney.