Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in McLennan County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
14 issues with critical priority
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Adoption
The county is balancing its upcoming budget by evaluating operational expenditures, employee incentives, outside entity funding cuts, and a proposed property tax rate increase to maintain fiscal health and address deferred maintenance.
Long-Term Water Supply Negotiations with Upwell Corporation
The board will consider authorizing a negotiating committee to begin discussions with Upwell Corporation regarding long-term water supplies.
FY 2026-2027 Preliminary Budget and Tax Rate Planning
The County Auditor led a detailed review of upcoming budget projections, fund balance reserve policies, tax rate calculations, and vehicle fleet financing strategies to prepare for the upcoming fiscal year.
Health Plan Sustainability
Waco is tightening its belt by hiking health insurance premiums for city employees by 7% and dropping coverage for weight-loss drugs. It’s a tough move aimed at balancing the books, but it definitely hits the wallets of the people who keep the city running.
FY 2027 Property Tax Rate
Because of a massive administrative screw-up, over 130 Texas cities—including some in McLennan County—are currently legally barred from raising property taxes. Local officials are scrambling to figure out how this budget freeze will impact city services and upcoming projects.
Data Center Opposition
Residents raised concerns during public comment about a proposed data center project in Northeast McLennan County. The court took no direct action on this item during the meeting.
County Capital Projects and Facility Updates
The Space Group and maintenance officials provided updates on major county real estate and construction initiatives, including the Judicial Center project and properties at Washington Avenue and Columbus Avenue.
Flood Disaster Recovery
Waco is dealing with some rough weather today, so stay alert and keep your phone handy for local updates. It’s the perfect time to make sure you and your family have a solid plan in case things take a turn for the worse.
Local Provider Participation Fund Transfers
The county approved intergovernmental transfers to support local hospital supplemental payment programs.
Devonshire Station Senior Housing Development
The court expressed support for a proposed 66-unit affordable senior housing development by the Waco Housing Authority.
Roadway Dust and Infrastructure Concerns
A local resident raised safety concerns about heavy gravel trucks damaging flex-base roadways and creating excessive dust near a youth sports complex in Precinct 4.
Criminal Case Backlog
The county is experiencing a significant rise in criminal felony filings, putting pressure on the judicial system and local jail population. Commissioners approved additional staffing for the 474th and 54th District Courts and the District Attorney's office to help process cases more efficiently.
Intergovernmental Agreement
Waco and McLennan County are renewing their partnership to keep the city animal shelter running for the whole county. It’s a standard deal that ensures stray and lost pets across the area still have a place to go.
ICE 287(g) Task Force Agreement Ratification
The court considered ratifying the Sheriff's Office participation in the federal 287(g) immigration task force program. Residents voiced strong opposition over civil rights and community trust, while officials noted state law mandates participation.