The Cleburne City Council meeting on September 9, 2025, focused on critical discussions surrounding property taxes and the approval of the city’s budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing concerns about rising property taxes, which currently account for approximately 23 to 24% of residents' tax bills. Council members expressed empathy for residents struggling to afford these taxes and emphasized the need for state-level reforms. One council member highlighted ongoing discussions with state representatives aimed at reducing property taxes, noting that the state has gradually decreased its financial support for education over the past 15 years. The council urged residents to remain engaged and hold all levels of government accountable for tax policies.

The council then moved on to the approval of the budget for the fiscal year 2026, which runs from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026. The proposed budget includes major initiatives such as investments in infrastructure, public safety facilities, and quality of life enhancements for Cleburne residents. The budget is based on a tax rate of $0.612548 per $100 of assessed value, which is expected to result in an average increase of $4.83 per month for homeowners with an average property value of $186,000.

Key allocations in the budget include $2.2 million for general fund enhancements, $5.1 million for maintenance projects, and a focus on employee compensation through a compensation classification study. The budget also anticipates a 10% increase in employee salaries, driven by rising medical premiums and retirement contributions.

The council unanimously approved the budget, reflecting a commitment to supporting city employees and enhancing services for residents. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing fiscal responsibility with the needs of the community, particularly in light of property tax concerns.