Council approved a $6.3 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, exceeding the state tax cap and potentially increasing average property taxes by $300 annually. The budget restores funding for critical services, including firefighter overtime and housing support, after addressing a $33 million deficit. Despite public safety demands, the Austin Police Department will reduce overtime by $9 million and utilize non-sworn staff for certain roles. Questions persist regarding the sustainability of funding allocations due to potential future financial constraints.
The Council passed a $6.3 billion budget for fiscal year 2026, triggering a tax rate election this November that could raise average homeowner property taxes by $300 annually.
The budget's approval restored funding to critical services previously threatened by a $33 million deficit, including firefighter overtime and the city's housing trust fund.
An amendment will allow Austin Police Department to use non-sworn staff for jobs, thereby freeing sworn officers for patrol, helping to save money in public safety.
Despite passing the budget with restored funding, questions remain about the long-term sustainability of these financial allocations amid future financial constraints.
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