City of Colorado Springs announces cost-savings measures in anticipation of 2026 budget shortfall

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~ Colorado Springs, CO - As the City of Colorado Springs prepares for the 2026 budget cycle, Mayor Yemi Mobolade announced a series of proactive financial measures aimed at addressing a projected $31 million shortfall while safeguarding essential city services. These adjustments, which include operational efficiencies, workforce reductions, scheduled furlough days, and the permanent closure of Meadows Park Community Center, are intended to maintain the city's long-term financial stability and ensure the continuation of critical administrative priorities such as public safety, emergency response, and infrastructure services.

In a statement to the press, Mayor Yemi emphasized the importance of taking action early to protect the needs of residents. "These are difficult decisions, but we are being proactive rather than reactive," he said. "By planning ahead, we can preserve the core services that our residents rely on and keep Colorado Springs strong for the future. These measures demonstrate our commitment to fiscal responsibility and a balanced budget. While this economy presents new challenges, we are rising to the occasion and making decisions that best serve our community."

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The proposed measures are in response to projected declines in revenue and will be formally presented by Mayor Mobolade to City Council on October 6th, 2025. This will initiate a public process that includes work sessions, public hearings, and Council deliberations throughout October and November.

One significant change included in these measures is the permanent closure of Meadows Park Community Center on October 10th, 2025. According to Britt Haley, Director of Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services, this decision was made after careful evaluation of usage and operational capacity. "Closing a long-standing community center is never easy," she acknowledged. "We understand the emotional connection many residents have to Meadows Park. However, with declining programming and nearby alternatives available through other City-operated community centers and partnerships with organizations like YMCA and Silver Key, we made the difficult choice to consolidate in order to preserve the overall strength of our parks and recreation system."

Residents who currently utilize Meadows Park Community Center are encouraged to take advantage of the services offered at Hillside, Deerfield Hills, or Westside Community Centers. These centers provide a wide range of programs for youth and seniors, as well as special events. The City will also be actively assisting clients in navigating these services.

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The 2026 Budget Response Plan includes several key highlights, such as the elimination of 38 civilian positions, equivalent to approximately 1% of the City's workforce. This excludes sworn public safety roles and any unfilled vacancies that will remain unfunded. Additionally, five unpaid furlough days will be implemented for City employees in 2026, with exceptions for public safety, critical operations, and grant-funded positions. Employees earning $72,000 or more annually will also take two additional floating furlough days.

To reduce spending, the City will defer select capital projects and centralize fleet and facilities maintenance. This plan has identified approximately $11.2 million in departmental savings and a $3.5 million reduction to the Capital Improvement Program.

In terms of employee compensation, there will be no cost-of-living or performance-based raises in 2026. However, civilian employees earning below the midpoint of their salary range will be eligible for up to a 2% pay progression on their job anniversary. Sworn step increases will continue as scheduled.

As Mayor Yemi stated, these measures may be difficult but are necessary to ensure the long-term financial health of Colorado Springs while maintaining essential services for its residents. The City remains committed to serving its community with care and continuity through these challenging times.

Filed Under: Government, City
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