The City of Englewood has introduced a proposed 2026 municipal budget that outlines $11.4 million in capital improvements alongside a projected municipal tax increase for local property owners. Presented to the City Council by municipal officials, the spending plan balances infrastructure upgrades, public safety investments, and emergency reserves against rising operational costs.
Under the proposed budget, the municipal tax rate would increase by 5.4 cents, moving from $1.360 to $1.413 per $100 of assessed value. For an Englewood homeowner with an average residential assessment of $474,900, this adjustment translates to an estimated increase of approximately $21.23 per month, or $254.81 annually.
Funding for the budget relies heavily on property taxes, which are projected to generate nearly $64.9 million in local revenue. To offset the total operational burden, the city plans to utilize $4.6 million from its surplus fund and anticipate $2.8 million in state aid. Additional revenues will be drawn from Payments in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) agreements, construction fees, and municipal investment income.
Despite the proposed tax increase, Englewood's long-term financial reserves remain robust. The city's fund balance has grown substantially over the last ten years, currently exceeding $12.4 million. Local financial officials note that this healthy surplus serves as a critical buffer for the municipality, safeguarding against unexpected emergencies, tax appeals, and future capital endeavors without immediately triggering drastic tax rate spikes.
An $11.4 million capital improvement program represents the cornerstone of the city's 2026 strategy. Funded in part by $2.45 million in county and state grants, the planned projects target high-priority infrastructure areas. Planned allocations include extensive road paving, sidewalk reconstructions, critical upgrades to sanitary sewer and stormwater systems, municipal facility renovations, and playground improvements. Additionally, the capital program covers necessary vehicle and equipment upgrades for the police department, fire department, recreation department, and Department of Public Works.