Dollars & Cents: A Breakdown of Tigard’s FY 2026 Budget
Budgets are more than spreadsheets—they are statements of values. In Tigard, our values are grounded in what we call the Five E’s: Equity, Environment, Economy, Engagement, and Excellence. And this year’s budget is a clear reflection of our commitment to delivering on those values even in the face of economic uncertainty.
Despite significant headwinds—including inflation, constrained revenues, and statewide economic shifts—we’ve managed to craft a budget that maintains core services, supports community programs, and prepares Tigard for the future. That didn’t happen by accident. It happened because of years of thoughtful planning and a community that consistently shows up to help shape our priorities.
Equity and Engagement
We continue to invest in the programs that build connection and foster equity. This year, we are proud to award community event and social service grants to partners who help keep Tigard welcoming and inclusive. These funds support everything from neighborhood events to critical wraparound services. We’ve also preserved funding for our homelessness liaison and housing planner—positions that ensure Tigard’s response to housing insecurity is strategic, compassionate, and coordinated. Park developments in underserved areas—like Steve Street and Bagan Park—are moving forward thanks to creative funding and community partnerships ensuring inclusive and equitable access to parks and green spaces for our community.
Economy and Environment
The FY 2026 budget continues to invest in local business retention, expansion, and innovation. One standout example is our business incubator program for the Launch Pods at Universal Plaza and the Opportunity Café at the Tigard Public Library. This program offers a springboard for entrepreneurs—particularly women, immigrants, and BIPOC community members—looking to launch or grow their businesses. We’re also offering grants in our Downtown and Triangle districts to ensure our small business community has the support it needs to grow and thrive. We’re not forgetting our environmental commitments. Investments in city operations are focused on carbon responsibility including on-going electrification of city vehicles, design and maintenance of city facilities, and planning for a carbon-responsible and climate-resilient community in the expansion of River Terrace.
Excellence
While crafting this budget, each department was tasked with reducing costs to address a forecasted deficit. Yet even with those financial pressures, we’ve avoided layoffs and protected the services our community relies on. We’re focused on long-term investments for a stronger Tigard that includes $4 million toward pre-construction costs for a new, resilient Police and Public Works facility and $6.5 million for long-overdue maintenance at our beloved Library.
Our approach is strategic and responsible. We’re not just reacting to fiscal challenges—we’re planning for long-term stability and resilience. And we’re doing it together, with transparency and accountability at the forefront.
Thank you for being part of a community that values good governance, thoughtful investments, and the shared belief that Tigard’s best days are still ahead.
