C
ity leaders in Chesapeake have approved a $1.7 billion operating budget for fiscal 2026, which includes raises for city employees and funding for enhanced public safety needs and projects. The budget was adopted unanimously by the City Council on Tuesday, with $17 million in amendments made since its initial presentation in March.

    The multi-year capital improvement plan allocates $217 million in fiscal 2026, down from an initial proposal due to council members avoiding tax hikes. Key priorities include $47.8 million for police and fire facility replacement, $22 million for the Greenbrier Area Plan implementation, and $11 million for site readiness programs.

    Council members opted against a proposed 2-cent increase in the city's real estate tax rate, instead generating about $5 million annually by redirecting funds from mosquito control to public safety. This approach left around $200,000 for other priorities, which was used to supplement the victims witness protection program carried out by the sheriff's office.

    The budget also includes a transfer of surplus funds from two Tax Increment Financing Districts, with the Greenbrier TIF receiving $15 million and South Norfolk receiving $14 million. Some fees and taxes will increase, including the hotel tax rate and water and sewer service charges. The city will maintain its personal property tax rate.

    The budget allocates $680.6 million to Chesapeake Public Schools for its operating budget, including an additional $20.7 million request from CPS. Council members also opted not to fund a data analyst position requested by the fire department and EMS. Several speakers made pleas for increased funding to various nonprofits and organizations at Tuesday's meeting.