Wilsonville City Council has taken significant steps to enhance its financial stability and public services during its recent meeting on June 2, 2025. A key highlight was the approval of the city’s fiscal year 2025-2026 budget, which totals approximately $228 million. This budget reflects a comprehensive approach to managing the city’s 24 funds, ensuring that each department operates within its approved budget while addressing community needs.
The council discussed the importance of state shared revenues, which are crucial for funding various municipal services. The anticipated revenues for the upcoming fiscal year include a substantial $2.2 million from gas taxes, alongside additional funds from liquor and cigarette taxes. The council passed Resolution 3,199, formalizing the city’s election to receive these state shared revenues, which are allocated based on population and are vital for maintaining essential services like police, planning, and utilities.
In a detailed presentation, Finance Director Keith Katko emphasized the budget's alignment with the city’s strategic goals, highlighting the importance of transparency and public engagement in the budgeting process. The budget committee's thorough review process, which included over six hours of deliberation, underscored the city’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.
Transit Director Dwight Pershear provided insights into the funding mechanisms for the city’s transit services, particularly the State Transportation Improvement Fund (STIFF). This program, established under House Bill 2017, aims to enhance public transit services across Oregon. Pershear noted that Wilsonville’s transit agency, SMART, is a significant recipient of these funds, which are crucial for expanding and improving local transit options.
The council also addressed the stability of the transit fund, which has shown consistent strength in recent years, bolstered by federal grants and the implementation of STIFF funding. This stability is essential for maintaining and improving transit services, particularly for low-income households and individuals with disabilities.
Overall, the meeting underscored the city council's proactive approach to budgeting and service delivery, ensuring that Wilsonville remains responsive to the needs of its residents while effectively managing its financial resources. As the city moves forward, the focus will remain on leveraging state and federal funds to enhance community services and infrastructure.