Chelsea Council Opens FY27 Budget Hearings
Chelsea City Council opened fiscal 2027 budget hearings with a warning about a looming funding cliff for emergency sheltering.
City Council · Meeting of May 18, 2026
Chelsea City Council opened fiscal 2027 budget hearings with a warning about a looming funding cliff for emergency sheltering. City Manager Fidel told councilors the city is spending roughly $600,000 a year in federal ARPA funds on displaced residents but the proposed budget includes just $50,000, with ARPA money required to be spent by December 31, 2026. Police Chief Houghton said staffing stands at 110 of a budgeted 115 officers, with plans for a 24-officer regional civil disorder unit and a new aerial drone.
Fire Chief Quateri said two new hires, plus two grant-funded positions, will bring fire department staffing to 108. Permitting and Land Use Director John DePriest was honored by councilors ahead of his retirement. Councilor Taylor pushed Housing and Community Development Director Ben Cares to prioritize business attraction over housing, saying the city is "going around and around on a treadmill."
In the full story:
- The complete report — 806 words
Source: the City Council meeting of May 18, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
Members read the rest of this story and every Chelsea meeting we cover, in full.
Become a memberAlready a member? Sign inA 30-day free trial needs a payment method. After it, your membership renews at the price shown at checkout until you cancel, which you can do anytime from your account. Subscription terms
Share this story
Know someone in Chelsea who follows town government? Share Townbrief Chelsea: they can sign up free.