By Jason Beck, Peoria mayor
In June, Peoria’s City Council unanimously approved the fiscal year 2026 budget.
As mayor, I am proud that this nearly $1.2 billion budget continues our commitment to supporting high-quality economic development, investing strategically in public safety, and planning for our long-term water future. This budget underscores our priorities as a council once again, without raising taxes.
Public Safety
As a city, public safety remains our most important responsibility and represents the largest investment in our budget. This year, we are adding 21 new positions across our police and fire departments, including two additional school liaison officers, dedicated to keeping our local schools safe. The budget also includes a second helicopter to support our already successful aviation unit. We are also continuing investments in training, equipment, and facilities, including the design of a new public safety station in the growing Vistancia area.
Economic Development
The fiscal year 2026 budget accelerates efforts to attract high quality economic development and drive future job creation to Peoria. Through our landmark agreement with the Arizona State Land Department, the city is bringing infrastructure needed to support the development of the 6,700-acre Peoria Innovation Core, along the Loop 303 corridor. Many of these investments will be reimbursed through future land sales and will work toward furthering the long-term vision for the city. In our historic downtown, we are furthering exciting revitalization efforts as Caldwell County BBQ and the Jefferson House make progress with construction continuing into fiscal year 2026.
Water Security
Through the growth, Peoria remains laser-focused on ensuring we plan strategically for our long-term water future. This budget includes funding to construct five miles of new reclaimed water infrastructure, ultimately connecting the Jomax and Beardsley plants. We are also investing in the study of advanced water purification and additional staff and equipment resources. These projects, and many more, will continue to position Peoria as a leader in responsible water management.
As a city, Peoria remains committed to our priorities and to balancing strategic economic development with the open spaces and recreational opportunities that so many have come to appreciate about our city. For more information on our council priorities, and to stay updated with ongoing initiatives, please visit www.peoriaaz.gov/councilpriorities.
