City Council Work Session - August 18, 2026

The City Council Work Session for the City of San Marcos held on August 18, 2026, focused extensively on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget and related financial matters. Key procurement-related discussions included the presentation of a structurally balanced $139.5 million general fund budget, with detailed reviews of major operating funds such as electric, water/wastewater, stormwater, resource recovery, airport, and transit funds. The council considered proposed utility rate adjustments, including a 1.3% effective rate increase and a $0.75 increase in the community benefit charge for electric utility customers, as well as a 3.4% rate increase for water/wastewater services. The budget also included funding for capital improvement projects, such as replacement radios and ambulances, and the establishment of a new emergency medical services (EMS) department. The council discussed EMS billing practices and fee schedules, with input from EMS billing consultants, and provided tentative approval pending further data on financial impacts and discounts for residents. Public participation and community engagement in budgeting processes, including participatory budgeting with 117 voters, were also addressed. The session concluded with plans for upcoming public hearings on the budget, tax rates, and utility fees.