Indianapolis City-County Council approves $1.9 billion budget for 2027

The Indianapolis City-County Council has approved a $1.9 billion budget for fiscal year 2027. The plan, supported by a Democratic majority, focuses heavily on public safety and infrastructure. The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) is slated to receive $400 million, an 11.5% increase from the 2026 budget, intended to fund 1,743 officers and overtime costs.

Infrastructure spending includes approximately $267 million for roads, bridges, and greenways, alongside $39.2 million for stormwater improvements. The city also anticipates over $95 million in additional infrastructure funding from Proposal 192, a vehicle tax increase. Other allocations include $54 million for Indy Parks and $2.8 million to operate a new low-barrier homeless shelter expected to open in 2027.

While the administration describes the budget as a balanced plan that does not rely on reserves, Republican leader Brian Mowery criticized the process, claiming the budget was “rubber stamped” without sufficient input. The budget also includes funding for behavioral health, opioid abatement, and animal care services, though it includes cuts to certain food access and reentry programs.