Arlington City Council Passes Budget with Property Tax Increase

Arlington City Council members voted to pass a $750.7 million operating budget for fiscal year 2026, which includes a property tax increase to combat a $20 million budget shortfall. The budget includes spending cuts, new fees, and fee adjustments. Despite some opposition, the council voted 8-1 to pass the budget, with 7-2 votes on two ordinances related to the property tax increase. Council member Andrew Piel voted against all three budget items, citing concerns about the impact on homeowners.

Key Takeaways:

• The $750.7 million operating budget includes a property tax increase of 3 cents per $100 of assessed value, generating about $11.1 million in revenue for city services.
• The property tax rate will increase to 62.98 cents per $100 of assessed value, a 3 cent increase from last year.
• The average homeowner will see a $12.20 increase in fees and property tax per month, or $146.43 a year.
• The city has included $7.7 million in cuts, including the removal of 42 vacant positions and adjusted hours of city services.
• Council members stand by the decision to increase property taxes, citing competition and protection for homeowners.

Statistics:

• $750.7 million: The total operating budget for fiscal year 2026.
• 3 cents: The increase in property tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $11.1 million: The revenue generated by the property tax increase for city services.
• 62.98 cents: The new property tax rate per $100 of assessed value.
• $12.20: The average monthly increase in fees and property tax for homeowners.
• $146.43: The average yearly increase in fees and property tax for homeowners.

Sources:

• "City passes FY 2026 town budget with property tax rate increase," The Shorthorn, September 16, 2023, by Samarie Goffney
• City of Arlington website, Arlington City Council Meeting Minutes, September 16, 2023