Mayor Joe Hogsett introduced a $1.7 billion spending plan for Indianapolis in 2026.
The proposal outlines a balanced budget that avoids tax increases while navigating revenue constraints from state-level property tax changes.
“This year’s budget reflects the need for operational efficiency while still protecting key investments in our city and in our people,” Hogsett said.
The proposal marks a $56 million increase over the city’s 2025 budget, despite what officials initially said was a $43 million shortfall. Hogsett said the plan represents the city’s ninth consecutive balanced budget.
Nearly 40% of the budget is directed toward public safety, totaling about $850 million. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department receives the largest share, roughly $358 million, to cover three new recruit classes, labor contracts, expanded surveillance technology and ongoing gun violence prevention programs. The Indianapolis Fire Department is set to receive more than $8 million for a new fire station and 65 recruits, while $8 million is also allocated to the Department of Public Safety’s emergency management division for tornado siren replacements and upgraded response equipment.
Infrastructure is another central focus. The Department of Public Works will see funding climb to $257 million, supporting major roadwork on West Washington Street and in Fountain Square, as well as greenway and bridge projects. The budget also reserves $10 million as a match for an expected $50 million annual state road funding stream beginning in 2027.
Housing and neighborhood initiatives include $10 million for homelessness response programs such as Streets to Home Indy, tenant legal assistance, and the Vacant to Vibrant blight redevelopment program. The Indy Peace Program is budgeted at $4.5 million to continue violence interruption strategies, and the Clinician-Led Community Response Team is slated to expand into a fourth district. Eviction prevention legal aid will also increase from $250,000 to $750,000.
Parks and cultural investments account for nearly $58 million, including projects supported by Lilly Endowment funds. The Indy Arts Council will continue to receive $1.3 million from the city and additional funding from the Indianapolis Bond Bank and the Capital Improvement Board.
City-County Council President Vop Osili commended the budget’s priorities in a statement following its introduction.
“In a fiscal year marked by revenue constraints, this budget reflects prudent decision-making while still prioritizing the needs of our neighborhoods,” Osili said. “We remain committed to strengthening public safety, investing in infrastructure and enhancing quality of life across Indianapolis.”
Republican Minority Leader Michael-Paul Hart said councilors will closely review the budget, including its approach to homelessness services and department reductions.
“Let’s find common ground rooted in common sense and common purpose, to make decisions that make our city better every day,” Hogsett said. “With this budget, we are doing just that.”
The proposal is now before the City-County Council, which will hold a public hearing on Sept. 22 and take a final vote on Oct. 6.
To find the full budget, click here.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.
Why is there no link to the budget document?
Hi Walter! Thank you for your comment! I have added the link to the budget document now. Thank you for reading!