City’s IT Department Seeks 8% Budget Boost for Cybersecurity, Digital Access

Pasadena’s Information Technology Department will present its fiscal year 2026 budget proposal to the city’s Economic Development and Technology Committee on Tuesday, requesting an 8% increase in funding focused on cybersecurity, digital access, and technological modernization.

The department plans to present its budget recommendations during a workshop scheduled for 5 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at City Hall. The meeting is open to the public.

The proposed budget would increase departmental funding to $27.27 million for fiscal year 2026, up from $22.45 million in fiscal year 2023. Personnel expenses represent the largest portion of the requested budget at $16.51 million, reflecting a 7.2% increase.

Services and supplies showed the most significant percentage growth at 12.2%, rising to $7.41 million. Internal service charges would increase by 18.7% to $1.82 million, while operating expenses would decrease by 14.5%.

Department officials identified several priorities for the upcoming fiscal year: expanding digital access, strengthening security systems, investing in data analytics tools, enhancing departmental collaboration, and exploring emerging technologies.

Major projects highlighted in the proposal include upgrading the Emergency Operations Center, replacing the aging telephone system, developing business continuity plans, expanding security cameras and access controls at city facilities, and improving website accessibility compliance.

The department cited recent accomplishments including successful implementation of advanced data analytics tools, enhanced interdepartmental communication technologies, and initiation of a Strategic Broadband Plan. Officials also noted completion of more than 50 department-specific projects that expanded technological capabilities across various city departments.

The proposed budget reflects the department’s continued shift toward cloud-powered solutions and modern infrastructure while prioritizing cybersecurity protection for critical systems and data.