December 19, 2025 – The Savannah City Council officially approved the City’s 2026 Budget at last week’s council meeting, marking a major milestone in advancing the priorities outlined in GPS, the City of Savannah’s strategic plan. The approved budget, now available on the City’s website, reflects months of public engagement, internal collaboration, and careful financial planning to keep Savannah moving toward a safer, stronger, and more sustainable future.
The 2026 Budget invests in public safety, housing, infrastructure, drainage and stormwater improvements, youth and family services, economic mobility, employee retention, and the essential services Savannahians rely on every day. It maintains the City’s long-standing commitment to fiscal responsibility and continues to focus resources on supporting neighborhoods across Savannah.
Mayor Van R. Johnson II said the approved spending plan reflects Savannah’s shared values and the clear priorities residents voiced throughout the budget process.
“A budget is more than numbers, it’s a statement of who we are and what we believe Savannah deserves,” said Mayor Johnson. “This budget invests in safer streets, stronger neighborhoods, and opportunities for every family. With this plan, we’re continuing the work of building a Savannah that thrives, not just for today, but for generations to come.”
City Manager Jay Melder said the 2026 Budget positions Savannah to deliver stronger outcomes and more equitable services across all communities.
“The 2026 Budget aligns every investment with our GPS strategic priorities,” Melder said. “This plan strengthens our core services, expands our capacity to meet the needs of a growing city, and ensures we are accountable for measurable results. I’m grateful to our residents, the City Council, and our employees for helping shape a budget that keeps Savannah moving forward.”
The budget continues the City’s commitment to maintaining a balanced financial plan while supporting modernization efforts, key infrastructure upgrades, and reinvestments in the City’s workforce. It also includes targeted funding to enhance public safety, improve mobility options, expand youth programming, and accelerate neighborhood revitalization efforts.
Throughout the fall, residents participated in public meetings, community workshops, and the annual budget retreat, providing feedback that helped inform the final spending plan adopted by City Council.
