5 Things to Know About Stamford's Proposed Budget

1. The combined city and school district proposed operating budget is $714.2 million, a 5% increase from last year. 

On the city side, the proposed budget is $353.7 million, an increase of 4.16% from last year, while the Board of Education budget is proposed for $350.5 million with an additional $5.1 million from the city to support school district services, a total increase of 5% from last year. 

The biggest expenses increases included: 

• Electric costs up 22%
• City benefits for employees up 11.9%
• Additional positions 
• Increased support for nonprofits

“This budget upholds my administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and ensuring high-quality and reliable city services for Stamford residents,” Mayor Caroline Simmons said in a statement. “By managing costs and prioritizing investments in public safety, education, and infrastructure, we are strengthening our city’s foundation for long-term growth while addressing current needs that enhance quality of life.

2. Education expenses make up half of the city’s operating budget, and officials said any reductions to it would require the district to “cut programs, services, and staff,” according to Superintendent Tamu Lucero.

On average, over the past 10 years, the Board of Finance and Board of Representatives has approved a 3% increase for the schools, less than the 5% increase requested this year, she said. 

“The Board voted to add $1.9 million in funding for school support staff, middle school family advocates, and school lunches to the superintendent’s proposed budget that was presented in January,” Lucero wrote in a letter to the community. “The BOE also approved an additional $1.5 million in funding needed to cover the state’s updated insurance premium cost projections.”

3. The city’s proposed capital budget, which covers more one-time, infrastructure-type investments, compared to the day-to-day costs in the operating budget, is $72.4 million.

The city proposes to issue bonds for about $40 million of the projects and fund the remainder through other funding sources, like state and federal grants. 

Some of the proposed capital projects include:

• $4 million for safety and security improvements at schools
• $7 million for road paving, ADA curb ramps, and projects focused on making Stamford more accessible, and bike and pedestrian friendly.
• $4 million for 142 upgraded or new units of affordable housing in partnership with Charter Oak, Pacific House, and the Housing Development Fund.

4. Mayor Caroline Simmons said the city is keeping an eye on potential changes to federal funding. 

She noted that the Trump administration has “initiated a 90-day review of all federal grant programs to see how programs align with the administration’s priorities. We are closely monitoring the situation and working with our federal lobbyist to navigate any potential impacts this may have on Stamford.”

5. Residents are invited to get involved in the process. 

The public hearing on the budget is scheduled for Tuesday, April 8 at 7 p.m. See the full budget schedule, read the full proposed budget and view Simmons’ presentation on the proposed budget.