The Port Arthur City Council convened on September 18, 2025, to discuss critical budgetary matters as the deadline for budget approval approaches. The meeting focused on the breakdown of the budget and the procedural requirements for its adoption.

The discussion began with a council member questioning the authority of city staff in breaking down the budget allocations. It was emphasized that staff is responsible for this task, and the council relies on their presentations for clarity on budgetary matters. The urgency of finalizing the budget was highlighted, with a reminder that the council must approve it by September 30.

Council members discussed the timeline for public hearings, scheduled for September 22 and 23, and the necessity of adopting the budget following these hearings. There was some confusion regarding the exact date for adoption, with members clarifying that the budget must be posted five business days prior to any meeting for adoption, adhering to new posting regulations.

The city manager was tasked with preparing a corrected copy of the budget for review before the upcoming meetings. The procedural order for adopting the budget and tax rate was also reiterated, noting that the budget must be approved before the tax rate can be set, as mandated by Texas statutes.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of adhering to the established timeline to ensure compliance with legal requirements and to facilitate the city's financial planning for the upcoming fiscal year. Further discussions and actions are expected in the upcoming meetings as the council works towards finalizing the budget.