The overview
The proposal represents a 5.8% year-over-year increase to the recommended general fund budget, according to county documents.
This would raise the general fund from approximately $318.26 million adopted in FY 2023-24 to roughly $336.8 million.
The following items are included in the recommended budget:
- $16.9 million for capital improvement projects
- $7 million for the Long Range Transportation Plan
- $4.4 million for improvements and upkeep of county facilities
- A 3% cost of living adjustment for civilian county employees, totaling $2.98 million
- A 3% merit increase for civilian county employees, totaling $2.91 million
- A 3% cost of living adjustment for law enforcement, totaling $1.54 million
- A step increase to the law enforcement and corrections chart, totaling $948,000
- $549,000 for parks department projects and upkeep
During the presentation, Holladay also recommended hiring 36 full-time employees and three part-time to full-time employees, which will cost roughly $4.4 million.What else?
Aside from the general fund, county officials recommended a 2.45%, or $1.77 million, decrease to the FY 2024-25 road and bridge fund, which would bring it to roughly $70.5 million.
County officials also recommended a proposed debt service fund of $200.75 million, with a $20 million debt defeasance.
What they’re saying
Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell thanked county officials for their work on the budget, noting how dramatic population growth has altered expenses.
Gravell said developing a budget for one of the fastest-growing counties in the country is complicated, adding that he never thought the court would adopt a $600 million budget between the three funds.
What’s next
According to county officials, amendments to the proposed budget will continue until Aug. 20. Commissioners Court will adopt the official budget on Aug. 27.
