CIRCLEVILLE — The City of Circleville will continue funding its safety forces through 2025 as normal, but significant cuts—potentially around $2.5 million—may be required in the 2026 budget following the failure of a proposed financial measure.
During Tuesday’s Finance Committee meeting, Mayor Michelle Blanton and the city auditor briefed City Council on current spending and anticipated shortfalls. They noted that while some savings were realized due to unfilled positions in the police and fire departments, the looming deficit for 2026 remains a major concern.
Tensions surfaced as Councilwoman Katie Hedges and Council President Keller urged the administration to begin making cuts now rather than waiting until next year. “We are talking about cuts and not spending any money,” Hedges stated, suggesting a more proactive approach.
Both Hedges and Keller also floated the idea of putting a safety levy on the ballot, citing the potential impact to staffing and services if the city cannot bridge the financial gap, and asked the Mayor to act now instead of even July as discussed. Mayor Blanton emphasized that the city’s financial responsibilities extend beyond safety forces to include the Municipal Court, Auditor’s Office, Treasurer, and Law Director, some of which are not as much in the Mayor’s control.
One proposal under consideration would require each department to trim 25% from its budget to help close the projected $2.5 million shortfall. However, no decisions were finalized, and the conversation highlighted growing friction between council members and city leadership.
As the city prepares for what could be a financially challenging year ahead, officials acknowledged that hard choices lie ahead—and residents may soon see the impact.
