The Kennewick City Council meeting on June 3, 2025, focused primarily on the first amendment to the 2025-2026 biennial budget. The council reviewed an ordinance that aims to modify the current budget, allowing for necessary adjustments and carryovers from previous fiscal periods.

City Clerk Miss Platt introduced the ordinance, which was previously discussed in a council workshop. The budget adjustment is designed to carry over balances for ongoing capital projects from the 2023-2024 biennium and to align beginning fund balances with their actual amounts. This adjustment is crucial for ensuring that the city’s financial records accurately reflect the current state of its funds.

The total requested increase in appropriation is approximately $67.5 million. A significant portion of this adjustment—about 96%—is attributed to the true-up of beginning fund balances and the carryover of ongoing projects. The remaining $2.5 million pertains to new items requested within the budget, including approximately $1.7 million earmarked for replacements.

The council was encouraged to review highlighted significant items within the staff report, and staff members were available to answer any questions regarding the proposed budget changes. This budget amendment represents a critical step in managing the city’s financial resources effectively as it moves forward with its planned projects and initiatives.