City Commission Budget Workshop: July 17, 2024

The City of Texas City held a budget workshop on July 17, 2024, to discuss the proposed fiscal year 2024-2025 budget. Finance Director Cynthia Rush presented an overview of the budget process, highlighting a flat general fund budget of approximately $77 million, with a $4.5 million new request primarily for labor, new positions, and capital equipment replacement such as aging vehicles. The Enterprise fund, mainly supporting water services, is projected to balance revenues and expenses. Special revenue funds, including the Texas City Dyke fund, were discussed with plans to allocate 20% of Dyke revenue to a new restoration fund to enable quicker repairs after storm damage. Debt service payments were reviewed, noting a recent $6.2 million bond payoff and plans to maintain a flat debt rate while potentially incurring new debt to fund capital projects like fire station expansions and infrastructure improvements. The Economic Development Corporation's healthy financial position was also shared. The commission emphasized maintaining service levels without increasing the tax rate, despite economic growth and infrastructure needs. Public comments were positive, and the meeting concluded with plans for further budget adoption steps.