FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | RELEASE DATE: June 12, 2026 | CONTACT: Dalilah Davaloz (562) 692-0921
(Whittier, Calif.) — Río Hondo Community College District presented its tentative 2026-2027 budget during the June meeting of the Board of Trustees, solidifying the District’s longstanding promise to prudent fiscal management, financial stability and strategic investment in student success.
The tentative budget reflects a balanced approach that aligns local planning with the State of California's proposed budget while maintaining strong reserves and funding critical instructional, student support and capital improvement priorities.
On May 14, 2026, Gov. Gavin Newsom released his revised budget proposal for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. The proposal seeks to balance budgets for both 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 and continues the state's focus on two-year budget planning.
For California community colleges, the proposal emphasizes funding stability and continued investment in priorities aligned with Vision 2030 and statewide student success goals.
"The tentative budget shows our commitment to responsible stewardship of financial resources while ensuring students continue to have access to high-quality educational opportunities and support services,” said Superintendent/President Teresa Dreyfuss.
The Governor’s May revise budget includes cost-of-living adjustments and categorical program funding, while continuing support for 1.5% systemwide enrollment growth over two years.
The District’s tentative budget was developed based on 12,600 Full-Time Equivalent Students, the primary measure used by the state to allocate community college funding.
The District’s 2026-2027 general unrestricted fund revenue is projected at $145,533,000 while expenses are $145,530,000 with reserve of $70,468,578. As to restricted general fund, projected reserves are $48,759,000 and projected expenses are $48,743,000 with reserve of $32,476,059. It is a balanced 2026-2027 budget.
"The Board remains committed to ensuring every dollar is invested thoughtfully and strategically in support of our students and community," said Board of Trustees President Rosaelva Lomeli. "This budget reflects the District's strong financial foundation and our continued focus on expanding opportunity, maintaining fiscal responsibility and advancing student success."
The tentative budget will serve as the framework for operations as the District enters the 2026-2027 fiscal year and continues its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education and workforce training opportunities to the communities it serves.
For more information about the District, visit RIOHONDO.EDU.