Eugene City Council reviews budget reduction scenarios to address $11.5 million gap

Eugene, OR – The Eugene City Council is reviewing potential budget reduction strategies to address an estimated $11.5 million annual shortfall in the General Fund.

During a work session on January 15, council members directed the City Manager to present two budget reduction scenarios in the absence of new revenue sources.

One scenario will apply proportional cuts across all six city departments based on their share of the General Fund.

The other will exclude reductions to core fire and police services while applying proportional cuts elsewhere.

These scenarios will be discussed at the council’s February 10 work session and will help determine whether to pursue a fire service fee.

The discussion will also inform the City Manager’s proposed 2025-2027 budget, which will be presented later this spring.

The city’s 2023-2026 Strategic Plan prioritizes a sustainable budget that maintains essential services.

Residents can find updates on the budget gap and ongoing efforts on the City’s Sustainable Budget webpage.