Budget season is here, y’all. City Manager T.C. Broadnax is presenting a draft, $6.6 billion budget proposal to Austin City Council members today, kicking off weeks of discussions on what the city should spend its money on over the next fiscal year.
Here’s what you need to know:
Your Property Taxes Could Increase
Austin homeowners would have to fork over roughly $346 a year if the budget is approved as is. This amount includes both a 3.5% increase in property taxes, and higher rates for electricity, water, trash, and drainage.
The city can only raise property taxes by 3.5% without asking for voter approval. Last year, the city’s measure to increase property taxes by 20% to cover its budget was rejected by voters.
Millions in Cuts Are Included
The budget beefs up some departments while trimming others.
A $16.8 million cut to the city’s social service portfolio has been proposed, which would affect contracts with organizations that provide things like youth assistance and HIV outreach. Other cuts include $170,000 from the Parks and Recreation Department’s programs for seniors and children, and $2.9 million from Travis County’s Sobering Center.
The budget also includes $6 million in overtime funding for the Austin Fire Department and a $504,000 increase in the Austin Police Department’s recruitment budget. Plus, Austin Animal Center would receive $250,000 to help with security at the shelter, and Austin Public Library would get five new staff positions.
The Budget Is Due Next Month
The budget is due in mid-August and will go into effect on Oct. 1. Austin City Council members will discuss the budget over eight meetings throughout July and August.
Public comment is allowed at the meetings by phone or in person. You can register online to speak on an item. You can find meeting agenda items online, as well. The budget is split up into two volumes, which you can find here and here.
