Idaho Falls: City Council Approves 2026 Budget
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IDAHO FALLS ~ Idaho Falls City Council Approves Balanced Budget for 2025-26 Fiscal Year

The Idaho Falls City Council has recently approved the city's budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, ensuring a balanced financial plan that will allocate public funds towards essential services, infrastructure, and community growth.

With a total budget of $389.6 million, the city will have the necessary resources to fund all services and operations across its 11 departments. This includes daily programs, staffing, as well as major infrastructure and facility improvements. The approved budget sets a maximum spending limit and supports crucial services such as public safety, utilities, the airport, library, parks and recreation, and other resources that residents rely on. Approximately 16 percent of the budget, or $52 million, will come from property taxes while the rest will be covered by utilities, fees, grants, and other revenue sources.

According to Mayor Rebecca Casper, this budget is more than just numbers on a page. It is a roadmap for meeting current needs while also preparing for future challenges. She stated that the city is committed to fiscal responsibility and supporting its workforce to ensure that residents continue to receive high-quality services.

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One of the key highlights of this budget is its strong emphasis on public safety. The funding will sustain 12 firefighter positions that were previously supported by a federal SAFER grant. This ensures that emergency response levels are maintained even after federal dollars expire. Additionally, resources have been allocated for facilities and equipment upgrades to keep up with the growing population.

The budget also includes pay and benefit adjustments across all departments in order to attract and retain employees in a highly competitive labor market. These investments aim to reduce turnover rates and ensure that residents are served by experienced and well-trained staff.

Another significant aspect of this budget is its focus on technology and infrastructure. A total of $111.4 million has been allocated for capital projects across the city including a major expansion of the Idaho Falls Regional Airport terminal, upgrades to the utility system, and facility improvements. The budget also includes the replacement of the city's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. These investments not only address current needs but also improve efficiency and position Idaho Falls for long-term growth and resilience.

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The budget reflects community priorities identified in the City Council's strategic plan. These priorities support investments in power, fiber, water, sanitation, parks, and other areas that are important to residents. These plans were developed based on the results of a National Community Survey conducted earlier this year. The survey aimed to gauge citizen satisfaction with city services and quality of life.

The budget was adopted on August 28th after a public hearing held on August 14th where residents were invited to provide input and feedback. Mayor Casper stated that their goal is always to balance the city's core responsibilities with a creative vision for improvement and innovation.

Residents can now review the 2026 Budget Book online, which offers a comprehensive look at how funds are allocated across city departments, upcoming capital projects, staffing investments, and key initiatives that support Idaho Falls' growth and quality of life.

To view the 2026 Annual Budget Book, visit https://www.idahofallsidaho.gov/ArchiveCenter/V....

Filed Under: Government, City

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