Columbia leaders to hold budget town hall meetings Monday

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Columbia city leaders are inviting the public to learn about the city's budget process for the 2026 fiscal year.

There will be two meetings taking place, one from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and the second from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., in Columbia City Hall conference rooms 1A and 1B.

The 2026 fiscal year budget includes $600 million in expenses, but the city is only expecting to bring in about $560 million, leaving a $40 million deficit. Council members will hold a final vote on the budget in September before the fiscal year begins and the plan takes effect in October.

Residents will have three opportunities to give public comments on the proposed budget during regular city council meetings, with the first one on Aug. 18 at 7 p.m.