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Leon Valley council votes to set FY26 budget and raise tax rate to add three firefighters
Summary
After hours of discussion and public comment, the City Council directed staff to update the proposed FY2026 budget to a 0.54 property tax rate and bring back final adoption; council members said the increase is needed to add three firefighters (one per shift) and bolster emergency response.
The City of Leon Valley City Council directed staff on Sept. 2 to update the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget to reflect a 0.54 property tax rate and return with final adoption and related notices. The change follows council discussion, consultant recommendations and public comment urging more first responders.
Councilors and the city manager said the move is intended to add three firefighters — one per shift — and related equipment and training. City Manager Dr. Caldera told the council, “this is not my money. It's their money,” and framed the proposal as responding to long‑standing staff and consultant recommendations for added fire staffing.
Why it matters: council members and several public speakers said recent development, higher population density and gaps in local emergency coverage have increased…
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