Dublin City Council will review a proposed $425 million Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and begin 2027 operating budget talks at a work session Sept. 8 at 6 p.m.

The session at 5555 Perimeter Drive is the second formal budget work session of the current planning cycle, according to the city's meeting agenda. It follows an Aug. 17 work session where staff presented the proposed 2027–2031 CIP.

That five-year plan has grown significantly. At a June 22 budget kickoff, the CIP stood at roughly $350 million. By the Aug. 17 presentation, it had climbed to approximately $425 million, about 14 percent higher in nominal terms than the prior approved plan, according to work session minutes.

Transportation projects account for the largest share at roughly 53 percent, or $228 million. Parks spending jumps to about $62.4 million, up from a prior average of $33 million. Utilities make up roughly 13 percent, with other capital needs filling the balance.

About $31 million in the proposed 2027 budget year is earmarked for maintaining existing infrastructure, representing just over 40 percent of that year's capital spending.

The plan calls for approximately $137.9 million in new debt over five years. In 2027 alone, about $36.9 million in new borrowing is anticipated, most of it for the University Boulevard Extension.

The city currently uses just over 53 percent of its income tax-backed debt capacity, leaving about $107 million available. Moody's has indicated Dublin could take on up to $226 million in additional debt and keep its triple-A bond ratings.

Council members flagged long-term affordability concerns at the Aug. 17 session. Vice Mayor Cathy De Rosa said at that work session that the CIP "has grown from approximately $250 million in 2023–2024 to $425 million in the current proposal, and projected income tax revenue growth of 2 to 3 percent annually will not be sufficient to sustain the maintenance obligations that accompany this level of capital investment."

Councilmember Andy Keeler echoed that concern at the same session, saying maintenance costs are growing faster than income tax revenues and that continued commercial development is essential to keeping pace.

About $205 million, or 48 percent of the plan, ties to four council strategic goals. Those include $63.5 million for the West Innovation District, $38.4 million for Metro Center revitalization, $23 million for a premier athletic recreation campus and $6.8 million for land acquisition.

Through May 2026, income tax collections were up 3.1 percent year-over-year, according to figures presented at the June 22 council meeting. The General Fund balance stood at 69.4 percent, well above the city's 50 percent policy floor.

First reading of the budget ordinances is scheduled for Oct. 12, with second reading and adoption planned for Oct. 28. A contingency date of Nov. 9 is set if council needs more time. The adopted budget is to be published Jan. 1, 2027.

Residents can contact Legislative Services at 614-410-4442 or visit dublinohiousa.gov for agenda materials.