City of Phoenix Approves FY 2025-26 Budget

Phoenix, AZ — Wednesday, May 21, Phoenix City Council officially adopted the Fiscal Year 2025–2026 budget with an 8-1 vote, marking a major investment in housing stability and the continuation of community services for residents across the city.  

“Despite facing significant budgetary challenges caused by external factors, this budget was achieved without cutting any programs or eliminating any city jobs, rather, the budget identifies an efficient and fiscally responsible path forward that protects vital services and the people who rely on them,” said Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington. “This budget reflects the values and priorities of our community. We are investing in people, in neighborhoods, and in the belief that every resident deserves a safe space to live and the opportunity to thrive.”   

This year’s budget includes strong support for programs that address urgent needs, such as the Eviction Legal Services Program and the City’s Housing Trust Fund, which provide tangible support for those facing housing insecurity. "I am proud to have led the effort to deliver one of the most significant investments in housing affordability Phoenix has seen,” Councilwoman Hodge Washington said. “The Housing Trust Fund equips the City with another tool in our growing toolbox to respond to the housing crisis, support families at risk of losing their homes, and prepare the City for possible changes to federal funding.  I made this a top priority because affordable housing cannot wait. Similarly, the increased funding to the Eviction Legal Services Program ensures that more families facing housing insecurity have access to critical resources in their time of need.”

Key Investments in the FY 2025–2026 Budget Include:  

·         Eviction Legal Services Program  
Allocation of $1.2M, which will expand funding for legal assistance to ensure renters at risk of eviction have access to representation and support. This program helps keep families housed, prevents homelessness, and ensures fairness in the legal system.  

·         Housing Trust Fund  
Increased investment by $2M, which totals $3.2M in the Housing Trust Fund, which will accelerate the development and preservation of affordable housing, while also supporting partnerships with nonprofits and community developers focused on housing solutions.  This marks the first time that the City has contributed to the Housing Trust Fund, rather than relying on the contributions of others. 

·         Homelessness Response & Services  
Allotment of $4.5M for outreach teams, shelter services, and wraparound support helps meet people where they are and offers compassionate pathways off the streets and into stability.  

·         Youth & Community Development  
Additional investments in after-school programs, youth employment initiatives, and community centers provide safe, enriching environments for young people to grow and succeed.  

·         Neighborhood Infrastructure & Public Safety  
Targeted improvements in streets, parks, lighting, and emergency response systems continue to strengthen the livability and safety of Phoenix’s neighborhoods.  

This budget was developed through a series of public hearings, community listening sessions, and robust feedback from residents across the city.  

“We heard our communities loud and clear: housing, safety, and access to opportunity are non-negotiables,” said Councilwoman Hodge Washington. “The community also stressed the importance of continuing city services, and this budget ensures that we are moving in the right direction — rooted in equity, shaped by the people, and focused on impact.”  

For more information on the FY 2025–2026 City of Phoenix Budget, visit phoenix.gov/budget.