FLINT, Mich. — After weeks of contention and chaotic meetings, Flint City Council has finally approved a budget for fiscal year 2026 ahead of the state’s deadline.
Flint City Council voted 7 – 0 during a June 11 meeting in favor of the budget. The Third Ward seat remains empty, and Flint City Councilman Leon El-Alamin left the meeting before the vote.
While council made the June 30 state deadline, the body did miss the city’s deadline of June 2 to pass the budget, which officials said threatened jobs and city services.
“Tonight’s passage of the budget is a clear demonstration of what can be accomplished when this body comes together to serve the best interests of the residents of Flint,” read a June 11, 2025, email statement from Flint Council President Ladel Lews and Council Vice President Candice Mushatt. “We are proud to assure our over 500 dedicated city employees that their jobs are secure, and we can provide peace of mind to our residents knowing that essential city services will continue uninterrupted.”
Neeley’s initial $68.5 million proposed budget was trimmed, and council voted to move forward with a budget of $61 million for 2026 instead.
The original budget, called for the use of $4.2 million from the city’s reserve fund a decision that had some council members worried about how sustainable that approach is in the long run.
On June 11, other concerns were raised, including 11 new positions for the mayor’s office, the inclusion of grant positions in the budget and a request for $65,000 for administrative services.
“I’m deeply pleased with the council’s decisive and unified support for my budget,” said Neeley in a June 12 email statement. “Passing this comprehensive financial plan—seven to zero—not only prevents service disruptions and layoffs but reflects our shared commitment to Flint’s future.”
The new budget is set to start on July 1.