City of Muskegon Releases DRAFT Budget for FY 2025-26
May 13, 2025
The City of Muskegon has released its DRAFT Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining essential public services while supporting long-term financial stability.
💼 A Balanced, Sustainable Plan
The proposed budget aligns with the City Commission’s strategic goals—both long- and short-term—while carefully managing resources. No significant changes to city departmental structures are proposed this year. However, the city recommends scaling back the number of capital projects funded by the General Fund and Public Improvement Fund to remain fiscally responsible.
Essential infrastructure investments—such as roads, water, sewer, and parks—will continue as planned, funded primarily through external or previously allocated resources.
🗓️ Budget Timeline
Mark your calendar and stay engaged throughout the budget process:
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May 12, 2025 – DRAFT Budget Released
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May 27, 2025 – Budget Presentation & Public Hearing at the City Commission Meeting
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June 9, 2025 – Budget Discussion at June Work Session
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June 10, 2025 – Anticipated Budget Adoption
(Budget must be adopted by June 30, 2025)
🛠️ Key Investments Planned
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Police Department Renovation:$125,000 will go toward updating the first-floor Police Department space (funded by the Public Improvement Fund).
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Safety Upgrades in City Offices:$40,000 is allocated for minor safety improvements in the Development Services and Finance Division offices.
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Continued Parks Investment:Enhancements will continue in the city’s parks system, supported by previously approved ARPA funds, which must be used by December 31, 2026.
📊 A Clearer, More Transparent Budget
This year’s draft budget includes new features designed to make the document more streamlined and understandable. Historical financial data is now presented in graphic form, giving residents a clear snapshot of how city finances have evolved—and how budget decisions are made.
It also includes a look ahead, with possible future budget scenarios outlined for long-term planning (see page 12 of the document).
🤝 A Collaborative Effort
This draft budget is the result of citywide teamwork led by Finance Director Kenneth Grant and City Manager Jonathan Seyferth, with major contributions from:
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Deputy Finance Director Jessica Rabe
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Financial Manager Hayden Nickell
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City Treasurer Sarah Wilson
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Deputy City Manager LeighAnn Mikesell
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Income Tax Administrator Peggy Straley
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Director of Government Relations & Strategic Operations Peter Wills…and every department head across the city.
🧾 Responsible Spending
All departments were asked to reduce discretionary spending by 2% compared to the current fiscal year (which already included a 5% reduction). These cuts do not affect personnel, helping maintain stability in staffing and services. As a result, the city has produced a structurally sound budget where revenues cover core expenses—with a buffer for flexibility.
📣 What’s Next?
The DRAFT FY 2025-26 Budget is now available for public review. Residents are encouraged to read the full document and participate in upcoming public discussions.
🗂️ View the Draft Budget: Draft Budget FY 2025-2026