Waite Park to Release Proposed 2026 Budget Monday Afternoon

(KNSI) — The City of Waite Park has announced its preliminary 2026 General Fund Budget, proposing a total allocation of $14.04 million, representing a 2.4% increase over the previous year’s budget.

The bump is primarily attributed to anticipated rises in salary and benefits, repairs and maintenance expenses, and capital equipment investments. Additionally, the city has allocated $715,000 from Regional Sales Tax revenue specifically for street improvement projects, bringing the adjusted General Fund total to $13.33 million.

The Police Department will receive the largest increase of over $327,800, with over $5 million for personnel and investments in digital audio and video equipment. The city would also like to buy new police cars and other safety equipment.

Public Works operations will see a $278,000 increase to $2.04 million. The funding will cover infrastructure maintenance by allowing for the purchase of specialized equipment, including snow removal attachments, maintenance vehicles, and an industrial vacuum truck for utility work.

The Fire Department budget will increase by more than $224,000 to $1.36 million, for new salary allocations and health insurance benefits. Capital improvements include funding for firefighter safety equipment and contributions to the Engine 2 replacement fund.

Engineering services will receive a $100,000 hike to a total of $1.93 million, primarily due to increased construction costs for capital improvement projects throughout the city.

The proposed budget will be presented during a city work session on Monday afternoon, where officials will review and discuss the funding package. The public is encouraged to participate in the budget review process.

The meeting gets underway at 4:30 p.m. at the Ledge Performers Building.

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