Item 15 - Early Direction for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget

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Early Direction for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 Budget March 18, 2025 Page 9 prevention assemblies, of which more than 370 (80%) are non -compliant, either due to missing annual tests or requiring repairs. To achieve compliance with state and local regulations, the City must implement a systematic testing, repair, and replacement program for all City -owned backflow prevention assemblies. This includes ensuring that all assemblies are tested annually, failures are addressed within the 30-day requirement, and proper recordkeeping is maintained to demonstrate compliance. Without immediate action, the City remains at risk of regulatory non-compliance, which could lead to potential enforcement actions and increased liability related to water quality concerns. Staff seeks City Council concurrence regarding an allocation of $500,000 to administer the required testing, maintenance, and replacement of City -owned backflow prevention assemblies to ensure compliance with state mandates. Code Blue Emergency Communication System Upgrade The Code Blue emergency communication units were installed in downtown Santa Ana approximately eight years ago to enhance public safety. These units provide direct access to emergency services and are equipped with surveillance cameras and emergency buttons. Due to their age and technological advancements, an upgrade is necessary to ensure continued functionality. The proposed upgrade would replace thirteen (13) Code Blue units, transitioning from obsolete 3G technology to 5G/LTE. This transition is required due to the phase -out of 3G networks and will enhance cellular connectivity, ensuring reliable emergency communication. The cost for this upgrade is $79,000. Staff seeks City Council concurrence for a recommended allocation of $79,000 in FY25- 26. Bus Shelters The City owns and maintains bus shelters throughout the City. Public Works staff recommends a one-time allocation in the FY25-26 budget to construct new or replacement bus shelters at 16 sites for a cost of $250,000. Staff seeks City Council concurrence for a recommended allocation of $250,000 in FY25- 26. Recurring General Fund Spending As reported in the Mid -Year Update on March 4, 2025, the net recurring amount available for the General Fund was $13,272. However, the available balance for FY 2025-26 has not yet been determined. As staff evaluates recurring capacity, preliminary findings suggest a potential shortfall. Given this, we would like to seek direction on the following recurring items.