City Council Discusses Budget Cuts for Police and Fire Department Raises

The Amarillo City Council held a special meeting on August 15, 2025, to discuss proposed changes to the city budget. The primary focus of the meeting was on recommendations aimed at maintaining budgetary balance while addressing various departmental funding needs.

City officials presented a series of recommendations to adjust the budget, emphasizing the need to make cuts in several areas. Key proposals included reducing civilian raises from 4% to 2%, and similarly lowering police raises from 5% to 3% and fire raises from 4% to 2%. These adjustments were suggested as a means to align with the city's financial goals.

Additionally, the council discussed the potential elimination of a street maintenance fee and proposed a significant reduction in IT charges from $1.2 million to a mere $200 increase to the general fund. The recommendations also included cutting costs associated with the Maya Marillo project, suggesting that these funds remain within the water and sewer department without any increases.

A notable point of discussion was the removal of a one-time working budget of $3 million, which had been part of the previous year's budget but was not included in the current proposal. Council members sought clarification on the implications of this removal, particularly regarding its impact on ongoing projects and funding.

The meeting underscored the council's commitment to fiscal responsibility while navigating the complexities of departmental needs and community services. As discussions continue, the council will consider these recommendations and their potential effects on city operations and services moving forward.