Editor's note: this article has been updated to clarify the scope of the guidelines.

The Travis County Commissioners Court approved its budget guidelines for fiscal year 2022-23 at a meeting Feb. 22.

The preliminary budget drivers total approximately $32.5 million, with the largest fund going toward staff compensation. The preliminary budget will be determined by July 2022, with the final budget approved in September along with the county's property tax rate.

The Travis County Budget Office proposed allocating $18.3 million for workers' compensation and benefits. County staff will receive a 3% wage increase across the board.

The second-largest amount of funds will go toward new facility staffing and operating expenses at $4.6 million. Another $4.5 million will be allocated for the justice system, including the Public Defender’s office grant match program and indigent attorney fees.