Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Texarkana public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in taxes budget
2026-2027 Legislative Priorities
The city's wish list for the 2027 Texas Legislature pushes for more state funding for roads, water systems, and public safety, plus support for Red River Army Depot and historic recognition of Trammell's Trace.
Water and Sewer Revenue Bonds and Tax Notes
The city sold $20.75 million in 25-year utility bonds at 4.88 percent — better than expected — funding utility projects with about $480,000 in debt-service savings and level payments for budget certainty.
FY 2027 Budget and Property Tax Rate
The citizen budget committee has started meeting, with a water utilities deep-dive May 12 and a joint session with the council May 27 — the start of the FY 26-27 budget conversation.
November 2026 general election call for Wards 3 and 5
The council formally called the November election for the Ward 3 and Ward 5 council seats.
Employee Health Insurance Cost Increases
Keeping United Healthcare for medical and dental costs the city about $1.8 million more than last year. Going self-insured would have cost even more — roughly $2.7 million extra — so the city stayed fully insured and will revisit self-insurance next year.
Phased budget reductions through FY 2029
The city manager previewed about 7% in phased budget cuts by 2029, driven by the Proposition 9 property tax exemption, the 3.5% revenue growth cap, and rising health care costs — with letters going to funding partners.