Rochester’s 2025-26 budget cuts $27M but preserves key services and investments

Rochester, New York – Mayor Malik D. Evans has unveiled Rochester’s proposed operating budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, a $680 million plan that reinforces the city’s forward momentum while maintaining a steady property tax levy for the fourth year in a row.

The budget, released amidst inflationary pressures and unpredictable federal support, reflects a $27 million decrease compared to the previous fiscal year. The bulk of that reduction—around $21 million—comes from the wind-down of one-time American Rescue Plan Act projects, while the rest results from cost-saving measures within city operations and capital initiatives.

“We’re doing what we need to, when we need to, at the amount that is absolutely necessary,” said Mayor Evans. “This is the fiscal prudence that allowed us to keep the tax levy flat for the fourth straight year. I’m proud of this budget because it funds the critical services, cutting-edge programs, and transformative projects that continue the momentum we started building three years ago to move Rochester forward.”

Despite the flat tax levy, the city has kept key programs and services fully funded. Mayor Evans emphasized that collaboration across city departments and partnerships with other agencies helped avoid service cuts and layoffs, even in tough fiscal times.

Fees for Local Works and Refuse will remain unchanged, though residents may see a modest increase—under $5 annually—on their water bills. That small bump will help pay for overdue upgrades to Rochester’s aging water system, including the replacement of lead service lines.

The proposed budget also pushes forward on several fronts: safety, opportunity, equity, and economic development. On the public safety side, funding will support continued strategies to curb gun violence, two new police recruit classes, and the ACTION Team’s alternative response model for non-violent emergency calls. Youth-focused efforts like enhancing R-Centers and expanding the Rochester Peace Collective remain key priorities.

Fire safety improvements include hiring more code enforcement staff and adding a 28-person Fire Academy class. Meanwhile, pedestrian safety gets a boost through the ROC Vision Zero program, and Rochester Animal Services will benefit from facility upgrades.

Community health and equity also play a central role. Investments will expand lead-paint inspection teams, enhance digital and mobile library outreach, and continue popular initiatives like the Roof-Repair and Vacant Rental Improvement programs. New roles, such as a Public Arts Coordinator, aim to widen cultural access and beautify public spaces.

Economic development plans span a wide range—from housing support through programs like Buy the Block and First Genesis, to expanded vendor space at the Public Market and International Plaza. The city also plans to open a new Maplewood Nature Center, boost composting efforts, and improve access to the permitting process by merging services under one office.