Huntington Mayor Patrick Farrell outlined a city budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year during a city council meeting this week and established four core priorities. Eyewitness News said safety was at the top of the list and the mayor pushed to fully fund police and fire crews, bolster legal recourses and prepare for an increase in operational costs for jails. The mayor proposed building a new Westmoreland Fire Station and starting a pilot program to assist homeless veterans. He also prioritized investments in street projects and water systems, and encouraged the demolition of dilapidated structures. Mayor Farrell also wants to increase the city’s population by connecting the downtown area to Marshall University and revamping the former ACF Industries property in Highlawn. The fourth and final consideration involved building enough reserve cash to cover two months of operational costs. Budget hearings will extend over the coming weeks.