The City of Clinton is looking ahead to a new fiscal year, with city leaders officially passing the FY26 budget, including several community-focused initiatives and investments.

On the WHOW Morning Show Thursday, City Administrator Tony Harris told the Hart Media Group the budget ensures essential services are covered and the approved budget has specific line items for the "Block by Block" program, as well as the popular "Concerts on the Square" series.

While the plans for City-sponsored concerts this summer are not high-profile up and coming artists, the goal is to return to those kinds of acts in the years ahead, reviving the once very popular summer concert series to its former glory. Harris notes booking talent of this caliber requires long-term planning.

In addition to entertainment, the city is in the early stages of evaluating a new project that has been a common request from local residents: a community dog park. Harris and Mayor Helen Michelassi confirmed that discussions are currently underway regarding a potential location and the necessary safety requirements.

The City is launching a new property cleanup initiative -'Block by Block'. Mayor Michelassi is calling for volunteers to support residents who may need assistance with yard maintenance, such as trimming bushes or removing debris.

Mayor Michelassi emphasizes that this program relies heavily on community volunteers and will allow the city to assist residents in beautifying their properties.

The City approved the latest fiscal year budget at the Tuesday night Clinton City Council meeting.