Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano released his Fiscal Year 2027 Executive Budget proposal on May 11, outlining a $1.57 billion plan that maintains funding for municipal services and Yonkers Public Schools without cuts to the active workforce.
The proposed budget is significant for residents because it addresses ongoing economic challenges while preserving key services and education funding. The city faces uncertainties due to changes in federal funding, tariffs, inflation, and market volatility.
“As we await the passage of New York State’s Budget, this year’s Executive Budget is based on the Governor’s proposed budget and must take into account the current global economic climate, such as cuts in federal funding, tariffs, inflation and a volatile market,” Spano said. “As such, this Executive Budget is honest and lean, and will look to offset the uncertainties left by many of these economic stressors.”
The proposal includes a $298.4 million appropriation for the Board of Education. Additional support features an increase of $16.3 million through maintenance efforts such as absorbing the district’s IT department costs and contributing toward school construction expenses. There is also an additional $17.3 million set aside for capital improvements like upgrading school infrastructure and Wi-Fi connectivity.
“Together, we have fought hard over the years to build the District back — that includes our 90 percent graduation rate and programs like sports, music and art. However, during recent years, we have lost critical federal dollars that once helped stabilize our schools in the aftermath of COVID-19. Today, Washington leaders are unwilling to fully recognize the unique challenges facing urban school districts like ours and provide additional funding,” Spano said.
He added: “As a result, pending additional state aid, Yonkers Public Schools will need to restructure and consolidate to accommodate for the changing District that has seen a 10% reduction in-district regular students, a substantial increase in the number of special education students and rising transportation costs.”
The municipal operating portion totals $775 million with general fund department expenditures at $354.1 million. The city plans minimal departmental spending increases except where required by contracts or mandates; three vacant positions would be eliminated under internal instructions limiting travel expenses while prioritizing efficiency measures.
A tax rate increase of 5.25% is included due mainly to union contract settlements—a typical home assessed at $10,900 would see property taxes rise by about $551 annually or roughly $45 per month under this plan.
“The Administration’s hope is that the 2027 Executive Budget is a basis for discussions and decisions as we are provided more clarity on New York State’s adopted budget in the coming days,” Spano said. “We will work with the Council and adjust the proposed budget accordingly.”
The City serves more than 200,000 residents across Westchester County through various departments including public works—delivering engineering services to maintain infrastructure—and offers diverse neighborhoods along with cultural attractions according to the official website.
The City Council must review and adopt this proposed budget before July 1.
