What you need to know about Mayor Bass’ proposed FY25-26 budget

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Monday, April 21, released what city officials described as a balanced  proposed budget for Fiscal Year 25-26, which aims to close the nearly $1 billion budget deficit. Here are some of the key takeaways:

1. The total budget is $13.95 billion, including $8.061 billion in general fund revenue.
2. Up to 1,647 city staff positions could be cut.
3. Sworn LAPD officers and firefighters will not face layoffs. About 20%, or 120 more officers, are staying on the force this year compared with 2024, city officials said.
4. The Los Angeles Fire Department budget will grow, adding 227 new positions along with funding for more paramedics, fast-response vehicles and support resources.
5. Homeless programs are protected. Funding for homelessness will be preserved to prevent people from returning to the streets, officials said.
6. Nearly 700 emergency 911 dispatchers will remain funded to help reduce wait times for callers.
7. The Reserve Fund will be maintained at 6%, above the 5% required by city policy. More than $200 million will go in the Budget Stabilization Fund to help cushion against economic instability and uncertainty at the federal level, officials said.
8. Funding is included for major infrastructure projects, including: Staff to support planning and coordination for the L.A. Convention Center; improvements to the Sepulveda Basin; and recreation facilities in San Fernando Valley and South Los Angeles.
9. Four departments will be consolidated under the Community Investment for Families Department. These include the Departments of Aging, Economic and Workforce Development, and Youth Development.
10. Several commissions will be eliminated or consolidated, including the Health Commission (whose work overlaps with Los Angeles County services); the Innovation & Performance Commission; the Climate Emergency Mobilization Commission; the Commission for Community and Family Services, which will be folded into the Community Action Agency – Community Action Board; and the Affordable Housing Commission, which will be consolidated under the Rent Adjustment Commission.
11. The proposed budget is not final. The Los Angeles City Council must review and approve a final version by June 1.