Residents of Hays County can expect to see a new budget for fiscal year 2025, which comes with a slight uptick in their tax rate, as reported by Hays County's official website. The overall budget, reduced by 4.8% from the previous year to approximately $356 million, reflects the completion of construction projects previously approved by voters. On the flip side, the tax rate will increase to 0.35 cents per $100 valuation, marking an upturn from the previous rate.
In a unanimous vote, the Hays County Commissioners Court set the wheels in motion for the upcoming fiscal year, earmarking funds for public services including law enforcement salaries and infrastructural necessities, Hays County Budget Officer Vickie Dorsett highlighted the specifics emphasizing that even as the county's growth rate dipped, critical areas require bolstering especially with the taxable value having risen by 2.6%, though the value from new improvements was down by 9.3% from the previous year.
Breaking down the budget, $224 million is allocated to Maintenance & Operations while Debt Funds and Construction Funds account for $44 million and $88 million, respectively. The General Fund, standing at nearly $158 million, now includes several programs previously bankrolled by ARPA funds, such as the Mental Health Court and additional school resource officers for the Hays CISD and Dripping Springs ISD.
Dorsett further clarified investment areas, stating "The Hays County Commissioners Court has always maintained a conservative budget approach with a dedication to our citizens to maintain a low county tax rate. However, as we continue to experience record growth, the need for additional staff, law enforcement, infrastructure and road improvements must also be maintained in order to provide our citizens a safe and thriving community." A portion of the tax rate increase will be pumped into the Road & Bridge budget, ensuring the county's 800 miles of roads are properly maintained against deterioration.
Finally, alongside its fiscal determinations, the Commissioners Court also gave the green light to FY25 elected officials' salaries and allowances. Information regarding these salaries is publicly accessible on the county website for all those wishing to learn more.
