Loveland's 2027 budget would limit General Fund capital projects to maintenance

Loveland's proposed 2027 budget would limit all General Fund capital projects to maintenance, with no new or expansion projects.

Staff put the City’s annual capital maintenance shortfall at at least $15 million in 2027. They said deferring maintenance compounds future costs.

The proposed 2027 General Fund budget is $141.1 million. Loveland City Council received the first reading of the City’s proposed budget during its regular meeting Tuesday, Oct. 6. A second reading is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 20.

The proposal’s personnel investments include police officers, criminal investigators and a dedicated cybersecurity full-time employee. Many requested items remain unfunded because of limited resources, staff said. Funded decision packages focus on essential business needs, particularly public safety, technology and core operations.

Staff projected a “positive” financial position in 2029–2030, tied largely to the expiration of the Centerra MFA. That expiration is expected to increase revenues, but not enough to fully resolve ongoing capital funding gaps.

Acting City Manager Brian Waldes said the City is balanced for 2027, but “this is not a sustainable place to be.” He said upcoming community conversations, funded through a proposed decision package, will be essential in shaping the City’s fiscal future, service priorities and long-term capital strategy. Pending budget approval, the City plans to engage residents in structured discussions about service levels, revenue options, capital needs and long-term sustainability.