Budget Retreat - July 11, 2026

The City of Saginaw, Texas held a Budget Retreat on July 11, 2026, to review and discuss the proposed 2026-27 budget. The meeting focused extensively on budget allocations across various city departments including public safety, public works, parks, library, animal services, and capital improvement projects. Key procurement-related discussions included funding for new positions such as an environmental specialist and a utility billing specialist, contract services for background checks, and equipment purchases for police and fire departments. The council also discussed increases in costs for services like appraisal district fees, health insurance premiums, and network email security. Capital projects such as park renovations, street maintenance, and animal shelter design were reviewed with mention of potential debt issuance to fund these projects. The council considered policy options like adopting a street maintenance fee to support infrastructure upkeep and discussed strategies for police and fire recruitment and retention, including salary and benefits adjustments. Several motions and action items were proposed, including a midyear review of public safety compensation and a potential increase in non-resident fees at the senior center. The meeting concluded with scheduling of public hearings for budget and tax rate approval in August 2026.