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Bexar County Commissioners Approve $2.96 Billion Budget with No Property Tax Increase
Bexar County's Commissioners Court has approved a $2.96 billion budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year, focusing on public safety, employee compensation, and economic development, without raising property taxes.
In a significant move for Bexar County, the Commissioners Court unanimously approved a $2.96 billion budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year on September 12, 2023. This budget, marking the 29th consecutive year without a property tax increase, underscores the county's commitment to fiscal responsibility and community welfare.
County Judge Peter Sakai highlighted the budget's alignment with his administration's priorities: public safety, public health, and economic development. "I’m delighted to have my priorities reflected in the first budget passed by the Bexar County Commissioners Court since I was elected County Judge," Sakai stated. "Public safety, public health, and economic development are critically important to everyone in Bexar County, and this budget reflects those priorities."
A notable feature of the budget is the allocation for public safety enhancements. The plan includes funding for the addition of fifty new Bexar County Sheriff's deputies, aiming to bolster law enforcement presence and community safety. Additionally, the budget provides for increased pay for Sheriff's deputies, reflecting a commitment to fair compensation for county employees.
Employee compensation and benefits have also been prioritized. Most county employees are set to receive a pay increase of approximately 3.5%, with those not covered by a collective bargaining agreement slated for additional increases based on their tenure in current positions. A new Performance Pay Program is also being introduced, offering employees the potential for up to a 5% salary increase in the 2024-2025 fiscal year.
In the realm of economic development, the budget allocates a 25% increase for the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Department. This funding aims to educate and train small businesses, particularly underutilized ones, to access county contracting opportunities, thereby fostering local economic growth and diversity.
The budget also addresses public health by increasing the Preventative Health Department's budget by 21%, aiming to enhance health services and initiatives across the county.
Notably, the budget was approved without raising property taxes, a decision attributed to increased tax revenue from new home and business developments. The current property tax rate remains nearly 30 cents per $100 valuation, maintaining stability for residents.
This budget approval reflects a concerted effort by Bexar County officials to balance fiscal responsibility with the pressing needs of the community, ensuring that essential services are adequately funded while maintaining economic stability for residents.ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.
