A current level of service and spending forecast, or CLS, shows Harris County is expected to spend approximately $3.06 billion in the next fiscal year. According to the presentation from OMB, expenditures include:
- $73 million for law enforcement, including $42 million for Year 2 of the county’s pay parity program—which increased officers’ salaries—and $31 million for position vacancies
- $69 million to restore countywide obligations funded by one-time sources, including a $25 million hiring freeze and $44 million in special revenue funds
- $38 million in projected health care increases
- $35 million in department spending requests, such as American Rescue Plan Act priority programs
- $32 million in tax-increment reinvestment zone increases, state-mandated requirements and general administrative cost increases
- $30 million in annualization of pay equity increases
- $20 million in inflation cost drivers such as fuel, critical software and vehicle maintenance
- $6 million in mid-year supplementals
While Harris County’s spending has increased year over year—jumping 12% in FY 2025-26 compared to the prior year—revenue sources aren’t keeping pace, the presentation shows. The county is on track to conclude the current fiscal year with a
$27 million shortfall, Ramos said.
About 80% of the county’s revenue comes from taxes, according to data from the county auditor’s office. As of March 31, Harris County has generated approximately 88% of its estimated tax revenue—budgeted at approximately $2.7 billion—for FY 2025-26.
As for non-tax revenue, such as charges for services, fines and interest, actual revenues through the second quarter total approximately 45% of estimated revenue for the current fiscal year.
A quick note
