Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in New Braunfels public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
12 issues in taxes budget
FY 2027-FY 2032 Financial Projections
Board members reviewed long-range financial forecasts to understand expected revenue and spending trends over the next five years.
FY 2027 Proposed Budget
The city council adopted a no-new-revenue tax rate of 41.56 cents and the FY 2027 operating budget, resulting in a modest $13 annual increase for average homesteads while funding staff cost-of-living adjustments and key street repairs.
FY 2027-2032 Financial Projections
The board received a presentation detailing financial forecasts for the next five years, giving insight into future revenues and planned investments.
FY 2027 Reinvestment Zone and Development Authority Budget
The board reviewed and approved the proposed budget and funding allocations for fiscal year 2027, determining how tax increment and authority funds will be distributed for local improvements.
Airport Financial Sustainability
The board discussed a proposal to forgive an airport loan, allowing funds to be reinvested directly into airport operations and infrastructure expansion.
2026 Ad Valorem Tax Rate
The city set its proposed property tax rate at the no-new-revenue level of $0.415613 per $100 valuation, resulting in a minor annual increase of about $13 for an average homestead.
FY 2026 Taxpayer Impact Statement
The city is required to show residents how their property tax bills will change under the new budget. This helps homeowners see exactly how much they might pay based on their county's median home value.
Employee Compensation and Tiered Cost-of-Living Adjustments
Council discussed whether to implement a tiered cost-of-living adjustment to give larger raises to lower-paid employees. While some council members favored helping lower-income workers, the city manager raised concerns about potential impacts on recruitment, retention, and existing market pay studies.
Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone #3
The board set its budget priorities for the year, saving half of its funds for future capital projects while funding grants and parking.
Use of Certificates of Obligation
The city initiated the debt issuance process for the Call Street Drainage Project, with financing to be repaid entirely by the Economic Development Corporation sales tax revenues.
Economic Development Transparency
Residents expressed concerns about how the city and the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) make decisions, calling for more public input and transparency regarding project funding.
Strategic Plan Progress
The city provided a massive update on its long-term goals, showing progress on everything from road repairs to public safety and new transit options like the 'Rio' microtransit service.