Duarte’s 2026-27 budget totaling $41.7 million in total expenditures, includes $30.8 million in General Fund spending and $5.2 million for major upgrades at Duarte park, city officials announced Wednesday.
Officials projected a budget deficit of $4.5 million but noted strong reserve funds to cover the shortfall.
At the June 9 City Council meeting, members unanimously adopted the fiscal year 2026–27 operating budget, following months of planning by officials and public discussions. The budget process included the city’s Five-Year Capital Improvement Project Workshop held on April 14 and a Budget Workshop on May 5, where council members reviewed funding priorities, planned capital projects and assessed the city’s long-term financial outlook.
This year’s budget includes projected General Fund revenues totaling $26.3 million.
“The difference is primarily attributable to the City Council’s decision to invest $5.2 million in Duarte Park Phase II using available General Fund reserves,” according to the city’s announcement. “Excluding this one-time capital investment, ongoing General Fund expenditures total approximately $25.6 million, reflecting the City’s continued commitment to responsible financial planning while investing in community priorities.”
The $5.2 million for park improvements will fund the second phase of the Duarte Park Revitalization Project, bringing a variety of new amenities to the park at 1344 Bloomdale St. Planned upgrades feature an inclusive playground, a basketball court, restrooms, dog park and a new parking lot.
Officials described the project as “a significant investment in the community’s health and quality of life.”
Mayor Tera Martin Del Campo said in a statement, “Duarte has long been known as the City of Health, and this investment reflects that commitment. The Duarte Park Revitalization Project will create new spaces for residents of all ages to play, exercise, gather, and enjoy the outdoors while ensuring we continue to manage the City’s finances responsibly for generations to come.”
According to the city, even with this significant spending on the park, the General Fund will maintain “a healthy reserve of $27 million,” representing 88% coverage of current-year spending. “This strong reserve positions Duarte to respond to future needs while maintaining long-term financial stability,” the statement said.
The 2026-27 budget also continues funding for the essential services that residents rely on daily, such as public safety services, street maintenance, parks and recreation programs, infrastructure improvements and other core services.
City Manager Brian Villalobos noted in a section of the budget document that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department contract for this fiscal year that began July 1 includes an estimated annual cost increase of 2.5% and liability surcharge of 14.5%, resulting in a $177,000 increase in the city’s public safety budget. The budget also includes $93,000 for the Pasadena Humane Society contract.
Public safety spending totals 27% of the city’s budget, or nearly $8.44 million this fiscal year.
“In total, expenditures and other uses for fiscal year 2026/27 are budgeted to be $41.7 million,” according to the city manager. “This represents a $3.6 million increase as compared to the 2025/26 estimated actual. Significant expenditure highlights are discussed below. …
“Total revenues and other resources received by the City and the Housing Authority during fiscal year 2026/27 are estimated to be $36 million. This amount represents an overall increase of $1.3 million as compared to the 2025/26 estimated actual budget.
“Total General Fund revenues … are projected to be $26.3 million, which is $2.4 million less than the 2025/26 estimated actual revenues,” Villalobos wrote.
Officials also expect a 5% increase in property tax revenues and a 2% increase in sales tax.
“This is a more conservative increase assumption than prior years, but still generates more than $357,000 in new revenues,” according to Villalobos.
To view the entire FY 2026-27 budget, visit the city’s website via tinyurl.com/mr282rm7.