Williamson County, staying ahead of growth curves and swelling populations, has adopted a new budget and set a tax rate aimed to directly benefit its residents and anticipate future needs, officials say. County Judge Bill Gravell emphasized the budget's alignment with strategic goals, stating, "Using our strategic plan as a guidepost, this budget provides essential services to help our residents today, as well as lays the foundation for our future," as reported by Williamson County's official website. The total budget for October 2024 through September 2025 stands at $635,129,938, comprising the General Fund, Road and Bridge Fund, and Debt Service Fund.
In response to the county's rank as the tenth fastest-growing in the nation, the FY25 General Fund budget has been earmarked at $361,223,296, incorporating 42 new full-time positions to efficiently manage growing administrative requirements. In a move to strategically acquire assets, the county will also purchase a 70,000-square-foot building on 28 acres via the tax levy, avoiding additional debt and contributing to the county's infrastructure.
Public safety is another focus of the new budget, with $400,000 allocated to develop a master plan for the county's Justice Center and jail, acknowledging that the current facilities are insufficient for the burgeoning demands of the county. "Enhancing services and systems to support a safe community is a high priority in the county’s strategic plan,” the budget reflects. Additionally, the budget provides for technological improvements for law enforcement and corrections officers, including new tasers and body-worn cameras. In light of recent economic challenges, Precinct 2 Commissioner Cynthia Long pointed to inflation's impact, saying, "The record inflation we have experienced in each of our households during the past three and a half years has impacted Williamson County operations as well."
Investing in county employees remains a cornerstone of Williamson County's approach to sustainable success, and the Commissioners Court approved a 3% cost of living increase and a 3% merit for civilian employees. Law enforcement and corrections personnel are also set to receive similar cost of living increases. The new budget embraces $28.3 million for capital improvements and aligns with the County's Long Range Transportation Plan. Echoing the sentiments on fiscal prudence, Precinct 3 Commissioner Valerie Covey told Williamson County's website that she supports "purchasing the building with cash because it is a responsible way to use our levy to address our need for office space without issuing debt."
The tax rate for the year 2024 has been set at 39.9999 cents per $100 valuation, which will result in an approximate increase of $191.45 for annual property taxes on the average homestead residence. The details of the adopted FY25 budget will become accessible for review by the public no later than September 30, both online and in the County Clerk’s Office, aiming to ensure transparency and community involvement in the county's fiscal management.
