Schertz City Council Budget Retreat - August 11, 2026

The Schertz City Council held a budget retreat on August 11, 2026, to review the proposed fiscal year 2026-2027 operating budget and capital improvement program (CIP). The city manager and finance director presented a detailed overview of the $179 million operating budget, highlighting a 27% increase over the prior year largely due to transfers related to a sales tax windfall. The general fund budget was $82.7 million, with significant allocations for public safety, personnel, and transfers. The council discussed the use of $32 million in excess fund balance for one-time investments including street preservation, vehicle and equipment replacement, capital purchases, and debt service support. The presentation also covered enterprise funds for water and sewer, EMS, and drainage, including proposed rate increases to support major infrastructure projects such as an $86 million sewer plant expansion. The CIP outlined nearly $94 million in projects for the next fiscal year, including street reconstructions, park developments, and facility upgrades, with a total 10-year plan exceeding $750 million. The council scheduled further budget discussions for August 25 to allow deeper review and public input. The meeting included public comments expressing concerns about budget transparency and spending authority.