At the May 5, 2026 Town Council meeting, the Carefree Town Council unanimously approved the Town’s tentative budget for Fiscal Year 2026–2027, reinforcing the Town’s continued commitment to conservative financial management, infrastructure investment, and public safety.
The proposed FY 2026–2027 budget totals approximately $12.1 million, excluding grants and contingencies, and reflects a balanced financial plan aligned with the Town Council’s Strategic Plan and long-standing financial policies. The Town continues to maintain strong contingency reserves, a structurally balanced budget, and a pay-as-you-go capital funding strategy with no reliance on long-term debt.
Budget Highlights:
Nearly two-thirds of the budget is dedicated to public safety and infrastructure improvements
Approximately $6.7 million allocated toward infrastructure investments
Approximately $2.9 million allocated to public safety services
General operational costs represent approximately 28% of the budget
Minimum anticipated operating surplus of $160,000
61% of compensation costs offset through cost recovery fees
Includes a proposed 3.5% cost-of-living adjustment for employees in FY27
Key infrastructure and strategic investments include roadway rehabilitation, drainage improvements, Town Center and economic development initiatives, technology upgrades, and long-range planning efforts.
The tentative budget was developed through a transparent public process that included two Town Council budget workshops held on April 21 and April 28, 2026. Workshop presentations and livestream recordings are available on the Town’s budget webpage.
The approval of the tentative budget established the Town’s maximum allowable expenditure authority under Arizona law. The final adopted budget may be equal to or less than the tentative budget amount but cannot exceed it.
Following publication of the tentative budget in accordance with Arizona statutory requirements, a public hearing and final budget adoption consideration will take place during the June 2, 2026 Town Council meeting.