City of Gulfport releases proposed Budget for Fiscal Year 2026

[Gulfport. MS] – The City of Gulfport’s proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2026 was delivered to City Council members on Friday, August 29.

This represents the Administration’s final revision prior to the budget public hearing on September 2, 2025, at 5:15 p.m. at City Hall.

The FY26 budget outlines the City of Gulfport’s projected revenues and expenditures for the coming fiscal year, including increased allocations for the Police Department, infrastructure improvements, capital projects, and other vital public services.

Despite revenues failing to keep pace with cost increases throughout all areas of the economy, the City will be able to meet its obligations without drawing from operating reserves.

“We’ve crafted a budget that balances fiscal prudence with meaningful investment in our city’s most critical needs. We will end the year with a small surplus of approximately $400,000 in the general fund and will add $1.5 million to the city’s unrestricted reserves, i.e., our ‘rainy day’ fund,” said Mayor Keating.

The proposed budget addresses funds available for capital improvements throughout all wards while considering projects previously approved by the City Council.

This approach ensures continued delivery of excellent public services while positioning the community for long-term success. However, funds for employee pay, other than sworn patrol officers in the police department, beautification projects, departmental capital outlays, more frequent grass-cutting along streets and public facilities, and operations of some community centers will be limited.

“To address those matters, we need to have candid conversations about additional revenue sources,” Mayor Keating noted.

Highlights from the FY 2026 General Fund

Public Safety

• 3% raise for all sworn police officers
• $500,000 for police vehicles

Infrastructure & Public Services

• Funding for additional administrator in Community Development to improve grant opportunities
• $26 million for citywide water and sewer improvements

Capital Budget

• $176 million budgeted for total capital projects

The City of Gulfport will hold a public hearing on its proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 at 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, in the Council Chamber of Gulfport City Hall.

All citizens of the City of Gulfport are invited to attend.