Merced City Council on Monday approved a nearly $440 million budget that will reduce the city’s reserve fund, in part, to allow a zookeeper to remain on staff. The change to the reserve fund ...

Merced City Council on Monday approved a nearly $440 million budget that will reduce the city’s reserve fund, in part, to allow a zookeeper to remain on staff. The change to the reserve fund ...

The Merced City Council will consider lowering the reserve amount to close a $430,000 general fund deficit and protect several programs and positions in its $438.5 million proposed 2025-26 budget.

Rivera Middle School teacher Bob Malone, 54, poses for a portrait in Merced, Calif., on Wednesday, June 4, 2025. Named one of Merced City School District’s Employees of the Year, Malone is ...