Funding request highlights 3% service increase through 2026 amid federal cuts

The Cooke County Special Commissioners Court held a budget hearing on July 10, 2025, focusing on funding requests and service trends over the past five years. The meeting highlighted a consistent increase in service demand, with a notable rise in 2022, where service numbers peaked at 10,000 before slightly declining to 8,700.

Officials discussed a projected 3% increase in funding for the upcoming fiscal year, emphasizing the need to maintain service levels despite anticipated cuts in federal funding. The proposed budget includes a request for $58,000 to support local services, which translates to approximately $18 per service hour.

The discussion also touched on the importance of adhering to state requirements for local funding matches while keeping expenses as low as possible. The court aims to balance the need for increased funding with fiscal responsibility, ensuring that essential services continue to meet community needs.

As the budget process moves forward, the court will consider these factors to finalize allocations for the next fiscal year.