YUMA, AZ (KYMA, KECY) – Yuma’s proposed budget is projected to be $472 million, a 14% increase from last year’s budget.

“All we saw tonight was the introduction of the budget to Congress,” said Dave Nash of Yuma City.

Everyone wants a piece of the pie when it comes to budget inclusions. Yuma Fire Department Chief Dustin Fields has announced his 2022 through his 2027 strategic plan for the fire department.

Department hiring and growth were high on the list.

When asked about hiring, Fields shared the idea of ​​a middle school-to-fire department pipeline. ”

Doug Allen, City of Yuma’s Chief Financial Officer, provided an update on the city’s current financial situation and financial outlook.

The proposed FY24 operating budget presented improved benefits for City employees, including four weeks of paid parental leave for both mothers and fathers, in addition to a paid education pathway.

Deputy city administrator Jay Simonton said, “When I met with all employees, tuition reimbursement was mentioned several times. College costs are only increasing, and that We have to match.”

The City encourages communities to share their thoughts on budget planning.

Nash said: Nothing is more important than having that budget for the fiscal year that starts on July 1st. ”