The council approved the two-year spending plan Tuesday as the city faces projected general fund shortfalls of $27 million and $34 million over the next two fiscal years.
Before the show starts, most of the work is already done. Here's how to set up for fireworks photos that actually work.
$1.57B budget passed, public works cut; fireworks photo tips...
Wednesday Gazette: June 24, 2026
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The council approved the two-year spending plan Tuesday as the city faces projected general fund shortfalls of $27 million and $34 million over the next two fiscal years.
Council approved a two-year budget Tuesday with tens of millions in projected shortfalls — and a key sales tax lifeline likely dead at the ballot box.
Why it matters: Cuts to public works — including crossing guards, pavement projects, and construction materials — will be visible across the city, even as police and fire spending grows.
Driving the news: Council voted 6-1 to adopt the fiscal year 2026-27 and 2027-28 budget, closing projected general fund gaps of $27.1 million and $34 million through reductions, fee increases, and one-time reserve draws.
By the numbers:
Yes, but: Councilmember Philip Falcone cast the lone no vote, calling public works cuts "an absolute non-negotiable." Several residents also challenged spending priorities at public comment, flagging personnel costs and unmet fire service needs.
What's next: The budget plan balances general fund operations through fiscal year 2030-31. Council also adopted a Transit Oriented Development Action Plan for growth near the Downtown Metrolink Station on Vine Street.
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Before the show starts, most of the work is already done. Here's how to set up for fireworks photos that actually work.
In Part 1, we looked at photographing fireworks with a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or film SLR. That method depends on a tripod, manual focus, manual exposure, and Bulb mode.
A smartphone works differently. You are not trying to duplicate the serious-camera method. Phones rely on computational photography and motion-capture features, and the best approach is to use those strengths instead of fighting them. For the 250th, most people on the mountain will be holding a phone, not a tripod.
A newer iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, or similar phone can do surprisingly well with fireworks. Older phones may struggle in low light, but even then, video can often save the night.
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The city's Community and Economic Development Department hosts Walk the Talk at Ryan Bonaminio Park this Friday, June 26, from 8–9 a.m. — a free guided walk for business owners and entrepreneurs spotlighting Café Oro Dos Aztecas, in partnership with Blue Zones Project Riverside.
With the Fourth of July approaching, the city is reminding residents that all fireworks are illegal within city limits and carry a minimum $1,500 fine — with the free 4th of July Spectacular fireworks show at La Sierra Park and Mt. Rubidoux offering a safe alternative.
UCR professor and award-winning graphic novelist John Jennings is being honored with "John Jennings: Build Your World," an immersive exhibition of four of his projects now on view through spring 2027 at Mississippi's Arts + Entertainment Experience.
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