Fremont city manager Karena Shackelford announced on June 30 the adoption of the city’s $392.4 million operating budget for fiscal year 2025–26, emphasizing long-term financial sustainability amid economic uncertainty.
Approved by the Fremont City Council on June 10, the budget reflects a “living within our means” approach, aligning spending with projected revenues. Shackelford noted that high interest rates, federal tariffs and a volatile economy have contributed to slower revenue growth. Still, the city avoided dipping into its $6.7 million Budget Uncertainty Reserve and set aside $46.4 million in contingency funds for emergencies.
Public safety remains a top priority. Fremont has hired more than 40 sworn police officers in the past 18 months, aided by recruitment incentives like a $100,000 lateral signing bonus and revamped hiring practices. Three new officers are expected to begin this July. The city also expanded emergency response in north Fremont by adding a new fire truck company at Station 6 and two fire inspector positions to launch a wildfire prevention program this fall.
To prevent service reductions, the city has proposed one-year labor contract extensions with no cost-of-living increases for all nine employee bargaining units. “We understand this represents a real sacrifice,” Shackelford said, but added that Fremont remains competitive in wages and benefits.
Homeless services will also remain fully funded at approximately $8 million, with $667,000 redirected to better align with city priorities, including increased support for rental assistance and overdose prevention.
The City will present its year-end budget report in late fall, alongside updated economic data.
