Denver’s proposed 2025 budget boosts affordable housing, first responders

DENVER ( KDVR ) — Denver City Council will begin hearings on Mayor Mike Johnston’s proposed 2025 budget on Monday.

Johnston called the proposed budget “a down payment on a brighter, more vibrant future” for the city of Denver, but also released a statement.

“Like every American city, Denver faces headwinds from an uncertain national economic environment and the end of one‐time federal ARPA funds. We therefore must adapt and be prepared for any future,” Johnston said.

The proposed budget earmarks $1.76 billion for the general fund, a 0.6% increase over the 2024 operating budget of $1.74 billion, which is the smallest annual proposed budget increase since 2011.

One of the biggest changes is an $85 million reduction in spending on efforts to address homelessness, but the city told FOX31 those programs would not be hindered.

“Much of the expenditures from last year were one-time capital expenses related to construction, acquiring facilities standing up facilities etcetera and so the reduction coming up this year we wouldn’t expect to negatively impact programming in that area,” Denver Chief Financial Officer Nicole Doheny told FOX31.

The Problem Solvers asked Doheny about how essential services would be affected. She said $11.9 million would fund seven academies to train 168 new police recruits, 60 new sheriff’s deputies and 24 new firefighters.

Another $60 million would go toward creating and preserving nearly 1,400 affordable homes. The budget also includes $12.5 million for migrant support, a decrease from $90 million budgeted in 2024.

Two hundred full-time city positions will be cut without furloughs or layoffs due to restructuring and not filling vacant positions. The city told FOX31 the budget also supports small businesses, cleaner climate and more opportunities for youth.

Adoption of the new budget is scheduled for November.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.