2026-2027 Operating & Capital Improvement Budget

Tustin’s story is one of transformation, resilience, and community pride. Nestled in the heart of Orange County at the crossroads of Interstate 5 and State Route 55, the City has grown from its agricultural beginnings into one of the region’s most vibrant and desirable communities. Located approximately forty miles southeast of Los Angeles and eighty miles north of San Diego, Tustin’s central location, strong neighborhoods, thriving business environment, and commitment to quality of life continue to make it a place where residents and businesses alike choose to put down roots. Long before the modern city was established, the land that would become Tustin was home to the Gabrielino-Tongva people, the Indigenous stewards of much of present-day Orange County and Los Angeles County. The Tongva established thriving communities throughout the region and developed deep cultural traditions tied closely to the land and waterways of Southern California. Their enduring legacy remains an important part of the region’s history and identity. Tustin’s modern history began in 1868 when Columbus Tustin purchased a portion of the former Rancho Santiago de Santa Ana land grant and envisioned a community surrounded by citrus groves and fertile farmland. That vision laid the groundwork for a flourishing agricultural town supported by California’s booming citrus industry and generations of families and entrepreneurs drawn to the area’s opportunity and mild climate. Officially incorporated on September 21, 1927, Tustin steadily evolved from a rural farming community into a growing suburban city. One of the most defining chapters in the City’s history emerged during World War II with the establishment of Marine Corps Air Station Tustin in 1942. The base became internationally recognized for its two massive wooden blimp hangars, among the largest wooden structures ever constructed. For decades, the air station played a major role in military aviation and regional development while becoming one of the City’s most iconic landmarks. Today, Tustin’s history continues to shape the community’s identity. Historic Old Town Tustin remains a centerpiece of the City, where preserved architecture, locally owned businesses, community gatherings, and tree-lined streets reflect the character and charm that residents value so deeply. At the same time, the City continues to embrace thoughtful growth and modernization. One of the clearest examples of that forward-looking vision is Tustin Legacy, the approximately 1,600-acre master-planned community developed on the former Marine Corps Air Station property. What was once a military installation has been transformed into a vibrant mixed-use district featuring residential neighborhoods, parks, educational facilities, commercial development, and regional destinations such as The District at Tustin Legacy. The project reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to balancing economic opportunities, community amenities, and quality of life. Tustin’s commitment to community extends beyond development and into the everyday experiences of its residents. The City is known for its expansive network of 28 parks, numerous trails, and recreational amenities that support an active and family- oriented lifestyle and plenty of opportunities for recreation, connection, and outdoor enjoyment throughout the community. Today, Tustin is home to approximately 80,000 residents and continues to be recognized for its strong neighborhoods, diverse community, and balanced approach to growth and fiscal sustainability. The City provides a full range of municipal services including police services, water utility, public works, recreation, community development, and transportation planning, while fire protection and emergency medical services are provided through a partnership with the Orange County Fire Authority.

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