City of Ventura Adopts balanced $527.4 Million Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27

The City of Ventura has adopted a balanced operating and capital budget of $527.4 million for Fiscal Year 2026-27 (FY27). The General Fund, the City’s primary operating fund, is balanced at $153.8 million and supports essential services including police, fire, parks and recreation, public works, and administrative services.

The FY27 budget prioritizes maintaining Ventura’s core services while continuing investments in critical infrastructure, housing and homelessness initiatives, environmental sustainability, and economic vitality. Major projects include improvements to the City’s water and wastewater systems, transportation infrastructure, public facilities, and community programs that support residents and businesses. The budget also includes a new Cultural Arts Manager Pilot Program to support arts, culture, tourism, and economic vitality.

Now in its tenth year, the voter-approved Measure O sales tax remains a critical funding source for infrastructure improvements and essential City services. The FY27 Measure O budget totals $25.7 million and supports projects such as street maintenance, sidewalk repairs, beach maintenance, storm drain improvements, and a new storm drain master plan.

“This balanced budget reflects our commitment to maintaining essential services while making strategic investments in Ventura’s future,” said Mayor Dr. Jeannette Sánchez-Palacios. “From infrastructure improvements funded through Measure O to housing and homelessness programs, arts and culture initiatives, and critical water and wastewater projects, this budget strengthens the quality of life our community values.”

Additional capital investments include continued progress on the State Water Interconnect, upgrades to the City’s 70-year-old wastewater treatment facility through the Membrane Bioreactor Project, planning and design for the future replacement of the tennis courts at Camino Real Park, and construction of facilities at the Olivas Links Golf Course.

“The FY27 budget reflects a disciplined approach to managing resources while continuing to invest in Ventura’s future,” said City Manager Bill Ayub. “With a balanced $153.8 million General Fund, more than $25 million in Measure O investments, and continued progress on major water, wastewater, and infrastructure projects, this budget addresses both immediate needs and long-term priorities.”

Earlier this year, Ventura received budget awards from both the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers and the Government Finance Officers Association, marking the 12th consecutive year the City has earned both honors.

For more information, visit the City’s Financial Transparency webpage at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/FinancialTransparency.