Long Beach officials released a proposed fiscal year 2027 budget that aims to eliminate a $58.2 million shortfall by slashing staff numbers while increasing compensation for the city’s top elected and appointed leaders.
The plan calls for the removal of 483 city positions, a mix of vacant and filled roles. Of those, 220 jobs are currently unfilled, while 263 are occupied positions slated for elimination. The cuts represent a significant reduction in the municipal workforce as the city seeks to balance its books.
At the same time, the budget proposes salary increases for senior officials, including the mayor, the city manager, members of the Long Beach City Council, and several department heads. The adjustments to compensation are intended to retain key leadership amid the broader downsizing effort.
City managers and department directors will be responsible for implementing the staffing reductions, while council members will vote on the final budget. The proposed changes come as Long Beach confronts a multi‑million‑dollar deficit that has prompted officials to consider deep cuts across city operations.
By targeting both the reduction of personnel costs and the enhancement of pay for senior officials, the city hopes to close the $58.2 million gap while maintaining continuity in governance and essential services. The approach reflects a balancing act between fiscal restraint and the desire to keep experienced leadership in place during a period of financial strain.
The budget proposal will be reviewed by the City Council before any cuts or salary adjustments take effect, and further details are expected to emerge as the council deliberates on the fiscal plan.