Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in McLennan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
5 issues in budget with high priority
Infrastructure Funding
Waco is dropping $228,000 of taxpayer money to expand a road near the new Park Meadows South development beyond what the builder initially planned. The city says it’s a proactive move to prevent future traffic jams, but it’s a significant chunk of change for a private project.
Behavioral Health and Opioid Settlement Funding Initiatives
The county renewed its contract with Prosper Waco to coordinate behavioral health initiatives, leveraging state Rider 58 funding and opioid settlement money to expand psychiatric bed capacity and jail reentry programs.
Public Health Funding
The local health district is reeling after a $1.1 million federal funding cut forced them to lay off eight employees. Expect longer lines and a harder time getting the basic health services you rely on.
Budget Cuts
Waco is cutting funding for local non-profits by 20% to balance the city budget. This means the community programs you use every day might have to cut back on their services or hours soon.
Budget Deficit
Waco’s economic boom is slowing down, leaving the city with a budget gap to fill. Officials are now looking at where to trim the fat, which could mean changes to the services you rely on.