Mayor Bass’ Proposed FY25-26 Budget Overview

Introduction to the Proposed Budget

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Monday, April 21, released what city officials described as a balanced proposed budget for Fiscal Year 25-26, which aims to close the nearly $1 billion budget deficit. Here are some of the key takeaways:

Budget Overview

The total budget is $13.95 billion, including $8.061 billion in general fund revenue.

Key Elements of the Proposed Budget

The proposed budget includes several key elements, including:

1. The total budget is $13.95 billion, including $8.061 billion in general fund revenue.
2. Up to 1,647 city staff positions could be cut.
3. Sworn LAPD officers and firefighters will not face layoffs. About 20%, or 120 more officers, are staying on the force this year compared with 2024, city officials said.
4. The Los Angeles Fire Department budget will grow, adding 227 new positions along with funding for more paramedics, fast-response vehicles and support resources.
5. Homeless programs are protected. Funding for homelessness will be preserved to prevent people from returning to the streets, officials said.
6. Nearly 700 emergency 911 dispatchers will remain funded to help reduce wait times for callers.
7. The Reserve Fund will be maintained at 6%, above the 5% required by city policy. More than $200 million will go in the Budget Stabilization Fund to help cushion against economic instability and uncertainty at the federal level, officials said.
8. Funding is included for major infrastructure projects, including: Staff to support planning and coordination for the L.A. Convention Center; improvements to the Sepulveda Basin; and recreation facilities in San Fernando Valley and South Los Angeles.
9. Four departments will be consolidated under the Community Investment for Families Department. These include the Departments of Aging, Economic and Workforce Development, and Youth Development.
10. Several commissions will be eliminated or consolidated, including the Health Commission (whose work overlaps with Los Angeles County services); the Innovation & Performance Commission; the Climate Emergency Mobilization Commission; the Commission for Community and Family Services, which will be folded into the Community Action Agency – Community Action Board; and the Affordable Housing Commission, which will be consolidated under the Rent Adjustment Commission.
11. The proposed budget is not final. The Los Angeles City Council must review and approve a final version by June 1.

Conclusion

The proposed budget for Fiscal Year 25-26 aims to address the city’s nearly $1 billion budget deficit while protecting key services and programs. The Los Angeles City Council will review and approve a final version of the budget by June 1.

FAQs

• Q: What is the total budget for Fiscal Year 25-26?
  A: The total budget is $13.95 billion, including $8.061 billion in general fund revenue.
• Q: Will sworn LAPD officers and firefighters face layoffs?
  A: No, sworn LAPD officers and firefighters will not face layoffs.
• Q: What happens to the Reserve Fund?
  A: The Reserve Fund will be maintained at 6%, above the 5% required by city policy.
• Q: Is the proposed budget final?
  A: No, the proposed budget is not final and must be reviewed and approved by the Los Angeles City Council by June 1.